English Language

English Grammar and Usage

1,563 Questions

English grammar and usage form a critical component of language sections in competitive exams. This hub provides practice with fill in the blanks, prepositions, and appropriate word selection. Strong grammar skills are necessary to score well in verbal ability tests.

Fill in the blanksPrepositions usageConjunctions selectionSentence correction

English Grammar and Usage Questions

Multiple choice
  1. philanthropist Winifred Holt discovered

  2. that the philanthropist Winifred Holt

  3. discovered by philanthropist Winifred Holt

  4. there philanthropist Winifred Holt discovered

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

philanthropist Winifred Holt discovered. Noun phrase in apposition to the subject. All the other options except (1) make use of connecting words which convert the phrase to a clause.

Multiple choice
  1. will be

  2. would be

  3. are

  4. were

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The correct answer is 'are'. The sentence describes a sequence in the present tense: amendments will be ratified (future passive) before they are presented (present passive). The 'before' clause uses present tense to show a condition that must occur first. 'Would be' would require the main clause to be in past tense, while 'will be' would be redundant with the earlier 'will be ratified'.

Multiple choice
  1. but

  2. nor

  3. during

  4. when

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The correct answer is 'but'. The sentence contrasts a long-standing tradition (trade show always in Oslo) with a new decision (this year in Stockholm). 'But' correctly shows this contrast. 'Nor' is used with negative constructions, 'during' is a preposition, and 'when' creates a dependent clause - none create the needed contrast.

Multiple choice
  1. egocentric

  2. philatelist

  3. altruist

  4. an egotist

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

'The height of conceit' is an idiom describing extreme arrogance and self-importance. An egotist (D) is someone who is excessively conceited and self-centered. An egocentric person focuses on themselves but not necessarily arrogantly; a philatelist collects stamps; an altruist is selfless.

Multiple choice
  1. neutral

  2. an ambivert

  3. egomaniacal

  4. altruist

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

An ambivert is someone who exhibits both introverted and extroverted traits depending on the situation - they are neither extremely introverted nor extremely extroverted. The phrase 'neither extreme' directly describes this balanced middle ground between the two personality poles.

Multiple choice
  1. ascetic

  2. egotist

  3. an altruist

  4. philanthropist

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

An altruist is someone who selflessly concerns themselves with the welfare and happiness of others. The phrase 'Let me help you' directly expresses a desire to assist others, which is the core definition of altruistic behavior - putting others' needs before your own.

Multiple choice
  1. firm

  2. stubborn

  3. disturbing

  4. admonishing

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Stubborn means refusing to change one's mind or behavior. Constant criticism can trigger defensive stubbornness in children. Firm and admonishing are positive traits developed through guidance, not criticism. Disturbing doesn't make sense as a result of being criticized.

Multiple choice
  1. will be increased

  2. increases

  3. will have increased

  4. is increasing

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The principal clause of the given sentence is in simple present tense and so the subordinate clause should also be in the same tense. And this condition is satisfied by option (2).