SSC CGL 22 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 strict rules of the library don't let students (1)/ to take more than two books (2)/ out at a time, which is often (3)/ inconvenient for researchers. (4)

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

Solution

let + bare infinitive The verb 'let' is followed by an object and then the BARE infinitive. So the "to" before "take" must be dropped. Correct: ‘don’t let students take more than two books’. Hence option (b).

77

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in the Active/Passive voice. The damaged server is about to be repaired by the technician.

A.The technician is to be repaired about the damaged server.
B.The damaged server is about repairing the technician.
C.The technician is about to repair the damaged server.
D.The damaged server will be repaired by the technician.

Solution

Passive → active "Is about to be repaired" is a passive form of "is about to repair". The doer, the technician, becomes the subject in the active voice. (a) and (b) reverse the roles; (d) changes the tense to simple future. Hence option (c).

78

Select the correct spelling of a word meaning 'A legal judgment that a person is declared not guilty of a crime'.

A.Acquittal
B.Accquitall
C.Acqutal
D.Aquittall

Solution

Spelling — Acquittal 'Acquittal' is the correct spelling — acquit + tal. It has a single c, a q followed by u, and a double t. The other three double the wrong letters or drop the i. Hence option (a).

79

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Modest

A.Ostentatious
B.Unpretentious
C.Humble
D.Conservative

Solution

Antonym — Modest 'Modest' means unassuming and humble about one's own merits. 'Ostentatious' means showy and designed to impress — the true opposite. Unpretentious and humble are synonyms of modest. Hence option (a).

80

Select the correct spelling.

A.Incongruous
B.Incongreos
C.Inccongrus
D.Inkongreuous

Solution

Spelling — Incongruous 'Incongruous' — out of place or not in harmony — is the correct spelling. It is built from in + congruous. The others distort the vowels or double the c. Hence option (a).

81

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 growth of online learning has expanded access to education across regions. 2. Flexible schedules and diverse resources allow learners to study at their own pace. 3. Yet disparities in connectivity and digital skills can deepen existing inequalities. 4. Hence, investing in infrastructure and digital literacy is essential for inclusive learning.

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

Solution

Para jumble — online learning Sentence 1 introduces the growth of online learning — the opener. Sentence 2 adds its advantages and sentence 3 ("Yet…") the drawback. Sentence 4 ("Hence…") concludes with what must be done. Order 1-2-3-4 — option (a).

82

Select the correct indirect/direct form of the given sentence. He explained, "I have finished all my tasks for the day."

A.He explained that he had finished all his tasks for the day.
B.He explained that he has finished all his tasks for the day.
C.He explained that he finished all his tasks for the day.
D.He explained that I had finished all his tasks for the day.

Solution

Direct → indirect The present perfect "have finished" backshifts to the past perfect "had finished". "I" becomes "he" and "my" becomes "his". (b) keeps the present perfect, (c) drops it and (d) keeps the wrong pronoun. Hence option (a).

83

Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. Hardly had the game started ____ the rain began to pour.

A.when
B.then
C.than
D.as

Solution

Hardly … when The fixed pairs are "hardly/scarcely … when" and "no sooner … than". Since the sentence begins with "Hardly had", it must take "when". "Than" belongs with "no sooner". Hence option (a).

84

Select the sentence containing the homonym of the highlighted word: The engineer adjusted the lever to release the pressure.

A.The child used a lever to open the toy chest.
B.A lot of money is needed to lever the unions into accepting a deal.
C.The farmer repaired the broken lever on the plough.
D.The worker cleaned the lever before using it again.

Solution

Homonym — lever In the given sentence "lever" is a NOUN — a bar used to move or lift something. Options (a), (c) and (d) all use it in that same sense. In (b) it is a VERB meaning to pressurise someone into doing something. Hence option (b).

85

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: He often sails close to the wind by bending the rules at work.

A.Operate at the very edge of legality or propriety
B.Travel rapidly
C.Avoid any risk
D.Seek isolation

Solution

Idiom — sail close to the wind 'To sail close to the wind' means to act just within the limits of what is legal or acceptable. The image comes from sailing almost directly into the wind — a risky manoeuvre. Bending the rules at work is exactly that. Hence option (a).

86

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in the Active/Passive voice. People generally acknowledged that the decision was a mistake.

A.It was generally acknowledged that the decision was a mistake.
B.The decision was generally acknowledged as a mistake.
C.The decision was a mistake, as people generally acknowledged.
D.Generally, people had acknowledged the decision was a mistake.

Solution

Impersonal passive When the object is a whole clause, the passive begins with the impersonal "It". So "People acknowledged that…" becomes "It was acknowledged that…". (b) changes the structure, (c) stays active and (d) shifts the tense. Hence option (a).

87

Choose the correct one-word substitution for: A short piece of writing or inscription on a tomb or gravestone in memory of a deceased person.

A.Autograph
B.Epitaph
C.Manuscript
D.Memoir

Solution

One-word — Epitaph An 'epitaph' is the inscription written on a tomb or gravestone. An autograph is a signature and a manuscript a handwritten document. A memoir is an account of personal experiences. Hence option (b).

88

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: We were on tenterhooks waiting for the exam results.

A.In a state of painful suspense
B.Physically restrained
C.Emotionally numb
D.Confused by contradictions

Solution

Idiom — on tenterhooks 'To be on tenterhooks' means to be in a state of anxious suspense. Tenterhooks were hooks used to stretch cloth on a frame — hence the sense of being stretched with tension. Waiting for results is exactly such a wait. Hence option (a).

89

Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underline/Bold segment in the given sentence. The athlete was too exhausted that he could not finish the race.

A.so exhausted that he could finish the race
B.too exhausted to finish
C.very exhausted to finish the race
D.so much exhausted for finishing the race

Solution

too … to The correct structure is "too + adjective + to + verb". "Too" already carries the negative sense, so "not" is not needed. Correct: ‘too exhausted to finish’. Hence option (b).

90

Fill in the blank with the correctly spelt word. The museum was ____ with ancient artifacts from around the world.

A.repllete
B.replete
C.repleat
D.replite

Solution

Spelling — replete 'Replete' means well filled or abundantly supplied. It is spelt re-plete, with a single l. The other three double the l or change the ending. Hence option (b).

91

Choose the correct one-word substitute for: 'A person who strongly criticizes or challenges traditional beliefs, customs, or established ideas'.

A.Iconoclast
B.Martyr
C.Monarchist
D.Idealist

Solution

One-word — Iconoclast An 'iconoclast' attacks cherished beliefs and established institutions. The word literally means "image-breaker". A martyr dies for a cause and a monarchist supports monarchy. Hence option (a).

92

Select the correct indirect/direct form of the given sentence. The reviewer projected that the market would rebound sharply in the next quarter, provided global economic stability improved.

A.The reviewer projected, "The market will rebound sharply in the next quarter, provided global economic stability improves."
B.The reviewer projected, "The market would rebound sharply in the next quarter, provided global economic stability improved."
C.The reviewer projected, "The market might rebound sharply in the next quarter, provided global economic stability improves."
D.The reviewer projected, "The market ought to rebound sharply in the next quarter, provided global economic stability improves."

Solution

Indirect → direct Reverse the backshift: reported "would rebound" comes from "will rebound". Likewise "improved" comes back to "improves". (b) simply repeats the reported form; (c) and (d) change the modal. Hence option (a).

93

Sentences describing ecological relationships are provided below in disorganised sequence. Reconstruct the narrative to form a logically flowing explanation. 1. These interactions, such as predation, competition, and symbiosis, define the community's structure. 2. An ecosystem is a dynamic community where living organisms constantly interact with each other and their environment. 3. Each species occupies a specific niche, influencing the flow of energy and nutrients throughout the system. 4. Ultimately, the health and stability of an ecosystem depend on the intricate balance of these diverse connections.

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

Solution

Para jumble — ecosystem Sentence 2 defines an ecosystem — the natural opener. Sentence 1 ("These interactions…") names the kinds of interaction and sentence 3 the niche of each species. Sentence 4 ("Ultimately…") closes with the balance on which stability depends. Order 2-1-3-4 — option (c).

94

Spot the error in the following sentence. My neighbour constantly complains for the noise coming from the children playing in the park.

A.coming from
B.in the park
C.My neighbour
D.complains for

Solution

complain about The verb 'complain' takes ABOUT or OF before the reason. "Complains for" is not idiomatic. Correct: ‘complains about the noise’. Hence option (d).

95

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: SHORT-LIVED

A.Ephemeral
B.Eternal
C.Constant
D.Everlasting

Solution

Synonym — Short-lived 'Short-lived' means lasting only for a brief time. 'Ephemeral' means fleeting and transitory — the closest synonym. Eternal, constant and everlasting all mean the opposite. Hence option (a).

96

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the food necessary for growth, metabolism and other vital functions. It encompasses a vast array of biochemical and physiological processes, beginning with ingestion and culminating in the assimilation of nutrients at the cellular level. Macronutrients — carbohydrates, proteins and fats — are required in larger quantities as they provide the bulk of energy and building blocks for bodily structures. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production, while fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption and organ protection. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are equally indispensable. These include vitamins and minerals, which play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. For instance, Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune support, while iron is central to oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues, ranging from mild impairments to severe diseases. The concept of a "balanced diet" is foundational to good nutrition, advocating for a diverse intake of foods from all major food groups to ensure adequate provision of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, modern dietary patterns, often characterized by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, frequently deviate from this ideal. These imbalances contribute significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between diet and health empowers individuals to make informed choices, fostering well-being and preventing chronic illness. Educating the public on nutritional science is, therefore, a crucial public health endeavour.

What are the three main macronutrients required by the human body?

A.Vitamins, minerals, and water
B.Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
C.Sugar, salt, and fiber
D.Enzymes, hormones, and cells

Solution

RC — macronutrients The passage names the macronutrients explicitly. They are carbohydrates, proteins and fats, needed in larger quantities. Vitamins and minerals are listed as MICROnutrients. Hence option (b).

97

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the food necessary for growth, metabolism and other vital functions. It encompasses a vast array of biochemical and physiological processes, beginning with ingestion and culminating in the assimilation of nutrients at the cellular level. Macronutrients — carbohydrates, proteins and fats — are required in larger quantities as they provide the bulk of energy and building blocks for bodily structures. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production, while fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption and organ protection. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are equally indispensable. These include vitamins and minerals, which play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. For instance, Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune support, while iron is central to oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues, ranging from mild impairments to severe diseases. The concept of a "balanced diet" is foundational to good nutrition, advocating for a diverse intake of foods from all major food groups to ensure adequate provision of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, modern dietary patterns, often characterized by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, frequently deviate from this ideal. These imbalances contribute significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between diet and health empowers individuals to make informed choices, fostering well-being and preventing chronic illness. Educating the public on nutritional science is, therefore, a crucial public health endeavour.

Why are micronutrients considered indispensable, even though they are needed in smaller amounts?

A.They provide the body's primary energy source.
B.They are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production.
C.They play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and cellular health.
D.They are essential for hormone production and organ protection.

Solution

RC — micronutrients The passage says vitamins and minerals play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. That is why they matter despite the small quantities needed. Options (a), (b) and (d) describe carbohydrates, proteins and fats respectively. Hence option (c).

98

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the food necessary for growth, metabolism and other vital functions. It encompasses a vast array of biochemical and physiological processes, beginning with ingestion and culminating in the assimilation of nutrients at the cellular level. Macronutrients — carbohydrates, proteins and fats — are required in larger quantities as they provide the bulk of energy and building blocks for bodily structures. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production, while fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption and organ protection. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are equally indispensable. These include vitamins and minerals, which play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. For instance, Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune support, while iron is central to oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues, ranging from mild impairments to severe diseases. The concept of a "balanced diet" is foundational to good nutrition, advocating for a diverse intake of foods from all major food groups to ensure adequate provision of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, modern dietary patterns, often characterized by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, frequently deviate from this ideal. These imbalances contribute significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between diet and health empowers individuals to make informed choices, fostering well-being and preventing chronic illness. Educating the public on nutritional science is, therefore, a crucial public health endeavour.

What is a key characteristic of modern dietary patterns, according to the passage?

A.A focus on balanced intake from all food groups.
B.High consumption of fruits and vegetables.
C.Frequent deviation from a balanced diet with processed foods and excessive sugar.
D.An increased understanding of nutritional science.

Solution

RC — modern diets The passage says modern diets are often marked by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats. These frequently deviate from the balanced-diet ideal. That imbalance feeds the burden of non-communicable diseases. Hence option (c).

99

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the food necessary for growth, metabolism and other vital functions. It encompasses a vast array of biochemical and physiological processes, beginning with ingestion and culminating in the assimilation of nutrients at the cellular level. Macronutrients — carbohydrates, proteins and fats — are required in larger quantities as they provide the bulk of energy and building blocks for bodily structures. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production, while fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption and organ protection. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are equally indispensable. These include vitamins and minerals, which play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. For instance, Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune support, while iron is central to oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues, ranging from mild impairments to severe diseases. The concept of a "balanced diet" is foundational to good nutrition, advocating for a diverse intake of foods from all major food groups to ensure adequate provision of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, modern dietary patterns, often characterized by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, frequently deviate from this ideal. These imbalances contribute significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between diet and health empowers individuals to make informed choices, fostering well-being and preventing chronic illness. Educating the public on nutritional science is, therefore, a crucial public health endeavour.

What is the primary role of carbohydrates mentioned in the passage?

A.Tissue repair.
B.Hormone production.
C.Oxygen transport.
D.Body's primary energy source.

Solution

RC — carbohydrates The passage states plainly that carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source. Tissue repair is the work of proteins and hormone production that of fats. Oxygen transport is linked to iron. Hence option (d).

100

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the food necessary for growth, metabolism and other vital functions. It encompasses a vast array of biochemical and physiological processes, beginning with ingestion and culminating in the assimilation of nutrients at the cellular level. Macronutrients — carbohydrates, proteins and fats — are required in larger quantities as they provide the bulk of energy and building blocks for bodily structures. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and enzyme production, while fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption and organ protection. Micronutrients, though needed in smaller amounts, are equally indispensable. These include vitamins and minerals, which play pivotal roles in myriad enzymatic reactions, immune function and overall cellular health. For instance, Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune support, while iron is central to oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues, ranging from mild impairments to severe diseases. The concept of a "balanced diet" is foundational to good nutrition, advocating for a diverse intake of foods from all major food groups to ensure adequate provision of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, modern dietary patterns, often characterized by highly processed foods, excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, frequently deviate from this ideal. These imbalances contribute significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between diet and health empowers individuals to make informed choices, fostering well-being and preventing chronic illness. Educating the public on nutritional science is, therefore, a crucial public health endeavour.

What can a deficiency in any micronutrient lead to?

A.Increased energy levels.
B.Stronger immune function.
C.Specific health issues, from mild impairments to severe diseases.
D.Excess weight gain.

Solution

RC — deficiency The passage says a deficiency in any micronutrient can lead to specific health issues. These range from mild impairments to severe diseases. The other options describe the opposite or an unrelated effect. Hence option (c).