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
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philanthropist Winifred Holt discovered
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that the philanthropist Winifred Holt
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discovered by philanthropist Winifred Holt
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there philanthropist Winifred Holt discovered
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.
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mean
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means
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meant
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meanings
B
Correct answer
Explanation
The phrase 'by means of' is an idiom that means 'using' or 'through'. The sentence means the ore is being extracted through the use of a huge robotic arm. 'Means' here refers to a method or way of doing something.
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will be
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would be
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are
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were
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'.
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.
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egocentric
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philatelist
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altruist
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an egotist
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.
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neutral
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an ambivert
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egomaniacal
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altruist
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.
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ambivert
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misogamist
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misanthrope
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misnomer
C
Correct answer
Explanation
A misanthrope is someone who dislikes or distrusts humankind and people in general. The expression 'people are no damn good' expresses a negative view toward humanity as a whole, which is the defining characteristic of misanthropy.
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misogynist
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misanthrope
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misogamist
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misnomer
A
Correct answer
Explanation
A misogynist is someone who harbors hatred, dislike, or prejudice against women. The statement 'women are no damn good' specifically targets women with negative sentiment, which is the exact definition of misogynistic attitude.
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ascetic
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egotist
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an altruist
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philanthropist
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.
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introvert
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extrovert
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an ascetic
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polyglot
C
Correct answer
Explanation
An ascetic practices self-denial and lives a simple, austere life, often in solitude. An introvert is merely shy, an extrovert is outgoing, and a polyglot speaks multiple languages.
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buried
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planted
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entombed
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cultivated
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.
B
Correct answer
Explanation
To put or set something in the ground for growth is called planting it. This is the correct answer as seeds are planted.
A
Correct answer
Explanation
An adjective will be used to describe how you feel. So, ''bad'' should be filled in the given blank.
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firm
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stubborn
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disturbing
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admonishing
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.
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will be increased
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increases
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will have increased
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is increasing
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).
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in the interim
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in the long run
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in the light of
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in the loop
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.
B
Correct answer
Explanation
This is the correct option. ‘In the long run’ implies something finally paying benefits.