In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
It is said that everyone lives (1)________ selling something. What you can (2)________ from this statement is that teachers live by selling knowledge, philosophers live by selling wisdom and priests earn their living by selling spiritual comfort. Though it may be possible to measure the value of material goods in terms of money, it is extremely difficult to (3)________ the true value of the services which people perform for us. There are times when we would
(4)________ give everything we possess to save our lives, yet we might grudge paying a surgeon a high fee for offering us precisely the same service. The (5)________ of society are such that skills have to be paid for in the same way that goods are paid for at a shop.
Q741.Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
- Aby
- Bover
- Cof
- Dinto
Show answer
Concept: The phrase live by (doing) something = earn one’s living by means of it.
- The next sentence repeats the pattern: ‘teachers live by selling knowledge’.
- So: everyone lives by selling something.
- over/of/into do not express means.
Trick: Check the passage itself – the same phrase is repeated just after the blank.
Answer: (A) by
अवधारणा: live by (doing) something = किसी साधन से जीविका कमाना।
- अगले वाक्य में यही ढाँचा है: ‘teachers live by selling knowledge’।
- अतः: everyone lives by selling something.
- over/of/into साधन नहीं बताते।
ट्रिक: गद्यांश में ही आगे वही phrase दोहराया गया है – उसे देखें।
उत्तर: (A) by
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionCloze test – prepositionSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
It is said that everyone lives (1)________ selling something. What you can (2)________ from this statement is that teachers live by selling knowledge, philosophers live by selling wisdom and priests earn their living by selling spiritual comfort. Though it may be possible to measure the value of material goods in terms of money, it is extremely difficult to (3)________ the true value of the services which people perform for us. There are times when we would
(4)________ give everything we possess to save our lives, yet we might grudge paying a surgeon a high fee for offering us precisely the same service. The (5)________ of society are such that skills have to be paid for in the same way that goods are paid for at a shop.
Q742.Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
- Aseparate
- Bderive
- Crevive
- Dchoose
Show answer
Concept: Derive (from) = obtain or understand (a meaning) from something.
- ‘What you can derive from this statement is that…’ = what you can infer from it.
- Separate, revive, choose do not fit ‘___ from this statement is that…’.
Yaad rakhein: derive meaning/conclusion/benefit from something.
Answer: (B) derive
अवधारणा: Derive (from) = किसी चीज़ से (अर्थ/निष्कर्ष) प्राप्त करना।
- ‘What you can derive from this statement is that…’ = इस कथन से आप यह निष्कर्ष निकाल सकते हैं।
- Separate, revive, choose इस ढाँचे में अर्थ नहीं देते।
याद रखें: derive meaning/conclusion from – निष्कर्ष निकालना।
उत्तर: (B) derive
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionCloze test – vocabularySSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
It is said that everyone lives (1)________ selling something. What you can (2)________ from this statement is that teachers live by selling knowledge, philosophers live by selling wisdom and priests earn their living by selling spiritual comfort. Though it may be possible to measure the value of material goods in terms of money, it is extremely difficult to (3)________ the true value of the services which people perform for us. There are times when we would
(4)________ give everything we possess to save our lives, yet we might grudge paying a surgeon a high fee for offering us precisely the same service. The (5)________ of society are such that skills have to be paid for in the same way that goods are paid for at a shop.
Q743.Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
- Aextort
- Bmock
- Cconceal
- Destimate
Show answer
Concept: The sentence contrasts measuring the value of goods with judging the value of services → estimate (to judge/calculate roughly).
- ‘possible to measure…, extremely difficult to estimate the true value of services’.
- Extort = obtain by force; mock = ridicule; conceal = hide – illogical with ‘value’.
Trick: ‘measure’ ke contrast me same-field word: estimate/assess.
Answer: (D) estimate
अवधारणा: वाक्य वस्तुओं के मूल्य मापने और सेवाओं के मूल्य आँकने की तुलना करता है → estimate (अनुमान लगाना/आँकना)।
- ‘measure करना संभव…, सेवाओं का सही मूल्य estimate करना बहुत कठिन’।
- Extort = ज़बरदस्ती वसूलना, mock = मज़ाक उड़ाना, conceal = छिपाना – ‘value’ के साथ अतार्किक।
ट्रिक: ‘measure’ के समान क्षेत्र का शब्द: estimate/assess।
उत्तर: (D) estimate
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionCloze test – vocabularySSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
It is said that everyone lives (1)________ selling something. What you can (2)________ from this statement is that teachers live by selling knowledge, philosophers live by selling wisdom and priests earn their living by selling spiritual comfort. Though it may be possible to measure the value of material goods in terms of money, it is extremely difficult to (3)________ the true value of the services which people perform for us. There are times when we would
(4)________ give everything we possess to save our lives, yet we might grudge paying a surgeon a high fee for offering us precisely the same service. The (5)________ of society are such that skills have to be paid for in the same way that goods are paid for at a shop.
Q744.Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
- Awillingly
- Bthoroughly
- Cperfectly
- Dthoughtfully
Show answer
Concept: The blank describes how we would give everything to save our lives → gladly, willingly.
- The contrast ‘yet we might grudge paying a surgeon’ needs the opposite of grudging → willingly.
- Thoroughly, perfectly, thoughtfully do not contrast with ‘grudge’.
Trick: ‘yet’ shows contrast: grudge ↔ willingly.
Answer: (A) willingly
अवधारणा: रिक्त स्थान बताता है कि जान बचाने के लिए हम सब कुछ कैसे दे देंगे → खुशी से, willingly।
- ‘yet we might grudge paying a surgeon’ का विरोध चाहिए – grudge (अनिच्छा) का विपरीत → willingly।
- Thoroughly, perfectly, thoughtfully ‘grudge’ का विरोध नहीं दिखाते।
ट्रिक: ‘yet’ विरोध दिखाता है: grudge ↔ willingly।
उत्तर: (A) willingly
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionCloze test – adverbSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
It is said that everyone lives (1)________ selling something. What you can (2)________ from this statement is that teachers live by selling knowledge, philosophers live by selling wisdom and priests earn their living by selling spiritual comfort. Though it may be possible to measure the value of material goods in terms of money, it is extremely difficult to (3)________ the true value of the services which people perform for us. There are times when we would
(4)________ give everything we possess to save our lives, yet we might grudge paying a surgeon a high fee for offering us precisely the same service. The (5)________ of society are such that skills have to be paid for in the same way that goods are paid for at a shop.
Q745.Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
- Aobstacles
- Binterferences
- Cconditions
- Dconnections
Show answer
Concept: The sentence states how society works: ‘The ___ of society are such that…’ → conditions (circumstances, rules).
- The conditions of society are such that skills must be paid for like goods.
- Obstacles and interferences are negative and illogical here; connections = relationships, not rules.
Yaad rakhein: ‘The conditions are such that…’ is a standard pattern.
Answer: (C) conditions
अवधारणा: वाक्य बताता है समाज कैसे चलता है: ‘The ___ of society are such that…’ → conditions (परिस्थितियाँ/नियम)।
- समाज की परिस्थितियाँ ऐसी हैं कि कौशल का मूल्य भी वस्तुओं की तरह चुकाना पड़ता है।
- Obstacles, interferences नकारात्मक और अतार्किक; connections = संबंध, नियम नहीं।
याद रखें: ‘The conditions are such that…’ – मानक ढाँचा।
उत्तर: (C) conditions
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionCloze test – vocabularySSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
As a society, we have come a long way in terms of progress and development. We have
eradicated diseases, explored space, and created technological wonders that were once
thought impossible. Yet, there is still one issue that continues to plague us: stupidity.
Yes, stupidity. The thing that seems to be contagious and has been spreading faster than the common cold. It's everywhere you look - on social media, in politics, in the workplace. You can't escape it.
It's as if we've all collectively decided that intelligence and common sense are no longer
important. Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings and
conspiracy theories?
Take politics, for example. It used to be that politicians were expected to be knowledgeable and well-informed about the issues they were dealing with. Now, it seems that all you need is a catchy slogan and some empty promises to win an election.
And don't even get me started on social media. It's a breeding ground for stupidity. People will believe anything they read as long as it confirms their preconceived biases. And don't even think about trying to present them with actual facts and evidence. That's just a waste of time. But it's not just individuals who are to blame for this epidemic of stupidity. Our education
system is failing us as well. We're teaching our kids how to pass tests instead of how to think critically and solve problems. It's no wonder we have a generation of adults who can't even find their way around a basic math problem.
Of course, there are some who would argue that stupidity is just a different way of thinking. That it's a valid perspective that deserves to be respected. To those people, I say this: if you want to be stupid, go ahead. Just don't expect the rest of us to respect your opinions when they're based on nothing but ignorance and misinformation.
It's time for us to take a stand against stupidity. We need to start valuing intelligence and
critical thinking again. We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they be knowledgeable and well-informed. We need to teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.
It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth fighting. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck in a world where stupidity reigns supreme, and there's no telling what kind of damage that could do. So let's all do our part and start using our brains again. It's time to put an end to the epidemic of stupidity once and for all.
Q746.Which of the following techniques has been used by the author of the passage to
convey the message?
- AExamples and anecdotes
- BFactual and chronological account
- CHumour and exaggeration
- DParody and mimicry
Show answer
Concept: Identify the writing devices: the author calls stupidity ‘contagious… faster than the common cold’ and an ‘epidemic’.
- Such comparisons are deliberate overstatement (exaggeration/hyperbole).
- Lines like ‘Why bother using your brain…?’ and ‘don’t even get me started’ add mocking humour.
- No real anecdotes, chronology or imitation of a specific work (parody) are used.
Trick: ‘epidemic of stupidity’ = hyperbole → humour and exaggeration.
Answer: (C) Humour and exaggeration
अवधारणा: लेखन-शैली पहचानें: लेखक मूर्खता को ‘सर्दी-ज़ुकाम से तेज़ फैलने वाली’ और ‘epidemic’ कहता है।
- ऐसी तुलना जानबूझकर अतिशयोक्ति (exaggeration) है।
- ‘Why bother using your brain…?’, ‘don’t even get me started’ जैसे वाक्य व्यंग्यपूर्ण हास्य (humour) जोड़ते हैं।
- वास्तविक किस्से, कालक्रम या किसी रचना की नकल (parody) नहीं है।
ट्रिक: ‘epidemic of stupidity’ = अतिशयोक्ति → humour and exaggeration।
उत्तर: (C) Humour and exaggeration
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionReading comprehension – techniqueSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
As a society, we have come a long way in terms of progress and development. We have
eradicated diseases, explored space, and created technological wonders that were once
thought impossible. Yet, there is still one issue that continues to plague us: stupidity.
Yes, stupidity. The thing that seems to be contagious and has been spreading faster than the common cold. It's everywhere you look - on social media, in politics, in the workplace. You can't escape it.
It's as if we've all collectively decided that intelligence and common sense are no longer
important. Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings and
conspiracy theories?
Take politics, for example. It used to be that politicians were expected to be knowledgeable and well-informed about the issues they were dealing with. Now, it seems that all you need is a catchy slogan and some empty promises to win an election.
And don't even get me started on social media. It's a breeding ground for stupidity. People will believe anything they read as long as it confirms their preconceived biases. And don't even think about trying to present them with actual facts and evidence. That's just a waste of time. But it's not just individuals who are to blame for this epidemic of stupidity. Our education
system is failing us as well. We're teaching our kids how to pass tests instead of how to think critically and solve problems. It's no wonder we have a generation of adults who can't even find their way around a basic math problem.
Of course, there are some who would argue that stupidity is just a different way of thinking. That it's a valid perspective that deserves to be respected. To those people, I say this: if you want to be stupid, go ahead. Just don't expect the rest of us to respect your opinions when they're based on nothing but ignorance and misinformation.
It's time for us to take a stand against stupidity. We need to start valuing intelligence and
critical thinking again. We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they be knowledgeable and well-informed. We need to teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.
It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth fighting. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck in a world where stupidity reigns supreme, and there's no telling what kind of damage that could do. So let's all do our part and start using our brains again. It's time to put an end to the epidemic of stupidity once and for all.
Q747.According to the passage, what is the solution to the issue of stupidity in society?
- AEmbracing ignorance and misinformation
- BTeaching students how to pass tests
- CElecting politicians with catchy slogans
- DEncouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Show answer
Concept: The final paragraphs state the remedy.
- ‘We need to start valuing intelligence and critical thinking again… teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.’
- The passage criticises teaching to pass tests (not to think critically and solve problems), catchy slogans and misinformation – so options A, B, C are the problems, not the solution.
Trick: Solution questions → read the ‘We need to…’ lines at the end.
Answer: (D) Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills
अवधारणा: अंतिम अनुच्छेद समाधान बताते हैं।
- ‘We need to start valuing intelligence and critical thinking again… teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.’
- गद्यांश परीक्षा पास कराने वाली शिक्षा, catchy slogans और misinformation की आलोचना करता है – A, B, C समस्याएँ हैं, समाधान नहीं।
ट्रिक: समाधान वाले प्रश्न → अंत की ‘We need to…’ पंक्तियाँ पढ़ें।
उत्तर: (D) Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionReading comprehension – detailSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
As a society, we have come a long way in terms of progress and development. We have
eradicated diseases, explored space, and created technological wonders that were once
thought impossible. Yet, there is still one issue that continues to plague us: stupidity.
Yes, stupidity. The thing that seems to be contagious and has been spreading faster than the common cold. It's everywhere you look - on social media, in politics, in the workplace. You can't escape it.
It's as if we've all collectively decided that intelligence and common sense are no longer
important. Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings and
conspiracy theories?
Take politics, for example. It used to be that politicians were expected to be knowledgeable and well-informed about the issues they were dealing with. Now, it seems that all you need is a catchy slogan and some empty promises to win an election.
And don't even get me started on social media. It's a breeding ground for stupidity. People will believe anything they read as long as it confirms their preconceived biases. And don't even think about trying to present them with actual facts and evidence. That's just a waste of time. But it's not just individuals who are to blame for this epidemic of stupidity. Our education
system is failing us as well. We're teaching our kids how to pass tests instead of how to think critically and solve problems. It's no wonder we have a generation of adults who can't even find their way around a basic math problem.
Of course, there are some who would argue that stupidity is just a different way of thinking. That it's a valid perspective that deserves to be respected. To those people, I say this: if you want to be stupid, go ahead. Just don't expect the rest of us to respect your opinions when they're based on nothing but ignorance and misinformation.
It's time for us to take a stand against stupidity. We need to start valuing intelligence and
critical thinking again. We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they be knowledgeable and well-informed. We need to teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.
It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth fighting. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck in a world where stupidity reigns supreme, and there's no telling what kind of damage that could do. So let's all do our part and start using our brains again. It's time to put an end to the epidemic of stupidity once and for all.
Q748.What is the tone of the passage?
- ASarcastic
- BSerious
- CMelancholic
- DJoyful
Show answer
Concept: Tone = the author’s attitude shown through word choice.
- Mocking lines: ‘Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings…?’, ‘That’s just a waste of time.’, ‘if you want to be stupid, go ahead.’
- Such ironic ridicule is sarcasm.
- Not melancholic (sad) or joyful; ‘serious’ misses the mocking irony.
Yaad rakhein: Saying the opposite of what you mean to mock = sarcasm.
Answer: (A) Sarcastic
अवधारणा: स्वर (tone) = शब्द-चयन से झलकता लेखक का दृष्टिकोण।
- व्यंग्य भरी पंक्तियाँ: ‘Why bother using your brain…?’, ‘That’s just a waste of time.’, ‘if you want to be stupid, go ahead.’
- ऐसा उपहासपूर्ण कथन sarcasm (कटाक्ष) है।
- उदास (melancholic) या प्रसन्न (joyful) नहीं; ‘serious’ व्यंग्य को नहीं पकड़ता।
याद रखें: मज़ाक उड़ाने के लिए उल्टा कहना = sarcasm।
उत्तर: (A) Sarcastic
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionReading comprehension – toneSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
As a society, we have come a long way in terms of progress and development. We have
eradicated diseases, explored space, and created technological wonders that were once
thought impossible. Yet, there is still one issue that continues to plague us: stupidity.
Yes, stupidity. The thing that seems to be contagious and has been spreading faster than the common cold. It's everywhere you look - on social media, in politics, in the workplace. You can't escape it.
It's as if we've all collectively decided that intelligence and common sense are no longer
important. Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings and
conspiracy theories?
Take politics, for example. It used to be that politicians were expected to be knowledgeable and well-informed about the issues they were dealing with. Now, it seems that all you need is a catchy slogan and some empty promises to win an election.
And don't even get me started on social media. It's a breeding ground for stupidity. People will believe anything they read as long as it confirms their preconceived biases. And don't even think about trying to present them with actual facts and evidence. That's just a waste of time. But it's not just individuals who are to blame for this epidemic of stupidity. Our education
system is failing us as well. We're teaching our kids how to pass tests instead of how to think critically and solve problems. It's no wonder we have a generation of adults who can't even find their way around a basic math problem.
Of course, there are some who would argue that stupidity is just a different way of thinking. That it's a valid perspective that deserves to be respected. To those people, I say this: if you want to be stupid, go ahead. Just don't expect the rest of us to respect your opinions when they're based on nothing but ignorance and misinformation.
It's time for us to take a stand against stupidity. We need to start valuing intelligence and
critical thinking again. We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they be knowledgeable and well-informed. We need to teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.
It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth fighting. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck in a world where stupidity reigns supreme, and there's no telling what kind of damage that could do. So let's all do our part and start using our brains again. It's time to put an end to the epidemic of stupidity once and for all.
Q749.According to the author of the passage, who among the following is NOT responsible for the spread of stupidity?
- APoliticians
- BEducation system
- CIndividuals
- DChildren
Show answer
Concept: List who the author blames.
- Politicians – win with ‘catchy slogans and empty promises’.
- Individuals – ‘it’s not just individuals who are to blame’; Education system – ‘is failing us as well’.
- Children are shown as victims to be taught to think – not blamed.
Trick: NOT questions: tick each blamed group in the passage; the leftover one is the answer.
Answer: (D) Children
अवधारणा: लेखक किन्हें दोषी ठहराता है, उनकी सूची बनाएँ।
- Politicians – ‘catchy slogans and empty promises’ से चुनाव जीतते हैं।
- Individuals – ‘not just individuals who are to blame’; Education system – ‘is failing us as well’।
- Children को सिखाए जाने वाला पक्ष (पीड़ित) बताया गया है – दोषी नहीं।
ट्रिक: NOT प्रश्न: गद्यांश में दोषी समूहों पर निशान लगाएँ; जो बचे वही उत्तर।
उत्तर: (D) Children
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionReading comprehension – NOT questionSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
As a society, we have come a long way in terms of progress and development. We have
eradicated diseases, explored space, and created technological wonders that were once
thought impossible. Yet, there is still one issue that continues to plague us: stupidity.
Yes, stupidity. The thing that seems to be contagious and has been spreading faster than the common cold. It's everywhere you look - on social media, in politics, in the workplace. You can't escape it.
It's as if we've all collectively decided that intelligence and common sense are no longer
important. Why bother using your brain when you can just rely on your gut feelings and
conspiracy theories?
Take politics, for example. It used to be that politicians were expected to be knowledgeable and well-informed about the issues they were dealing with. Now, it seems that all you need is a catchy slogan and some empty promises to win an election.
And don't even get me started on social media. It's a breeding ground for stupidity. People will believe anything they read as long as it confirms their preconceived biases. And don't even think about trying to present them with actual facts and evidence. That's just a waste of time. But it's not just individuals who are to blame for this epidemic of stupidity. Our education
system is failing us as well. We're teaching our kids how to pass tests instead of how to think critically and solve problems. It's no wonder we have a generation of adults who can't even find their way around a basic math problem.
Of course, there are some who would argue that stupidity is just a different way of thinking. That it's a valid perspective that deserves to be respected. To those people, I say this: if you want to be stupid, go ahead. Just don't expect the rest of us to respect your opinions when they're based on nothing but ignorance and misinformation.
It's time for us to take a stand against stupidity. We need to start valuing intelligence and
critical thinking again. We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they be knowledgeable and well-informed. We need to teach our children how to think, not just how to memorise.
It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth fighting. Because if we don't, we'll be stuck in a world where stupidity reigns supreme, and there's no telling what kind of damage that could do. So let's all do our part and start using our brains again. It's time to put an end to the epidemic of stupidity once and for all.
Q750.What could be a suitable title for the passage?
- AThe Evils of Social Media
- BThe Benefits of Stupidity
- CThe Joy of Living in a World of Ignorance
- DThe Importance of Critical Thinking
Show answer
Concept: A title must cover the central idea of the whole passage.
- The passage attacks the ‘epidemic of stupidity’ and ends by urging us to value intelligence and critical thinking.
- ‘Evils of Social Media’ covers only one paragraph; ‘Benefits of Stupidity’ and ‘Joy of Living in Ignorance’ contradict the message.
Trick: Title = main message of the conclusion, not one example.
Answer: (D) The Importance of Critical Thinking
अवधारणा: शीर्षक पूरे गद्यांश के केंद्रीय विचार को समेटे।
- गद्यांश ‘मूर्खता की महामारी’ की आलोचना करता है और अंत में बुद्धि व critical thinking को महत्व देने का आग्रह करता है।
- ‘Evils of Social Media’ केवल एक अनुच्छेद; ‘Benefits of Stupidity’ और ‘Joy of … Ignorance’ संदेश के विपरीत।
ट्रिक: शीर्षक = निष्कर्ष का मुख्य संदेश, एक उदाहरण नहीं।
उत्तर: (D) The Importance of Critical Thinking
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionReading comprehension – titleSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 4 Oct Shift 1
Q751.Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined idiom/phrase in the given sentence.
You cannot throw dust into my eyes.
- Aterrify me
- Bhurt me
- Cabuse me
- Dmislead or deceive me
Show answer
Concept: To throw dust into someone's eyes means to mislead or deceive a person by hiding the truth.
- The speaker says nobody can fool him – he sees through tricks.
- 'Terrify', 'hurt' and 'abuse' do not carry the idea of trickery.
- Only 'mislead or deceive me' keeps the exact sense.
Trick: Dust in the eyes → you cannot see clearly → you are fooled.
Answer: (D) mislead or deceive me
अवधारणा: Throw dust into someone's eyes का अर्थ है किसी को धोखा देना या भ्रमित करना (आँखों में धूल झोंकना)।
- वक्ता कह रहा है कि तुम मुझे बेवकूफ़ नहीं बना सकते।
- terrify (डराना), hurt (चोट पहुँचाना), abuse (गाली देना) में धोखे का भाव नहीं है।
- इसलिए 'mislead or deceive me' सही है।
ट्रिक: हिंदी मुहावरा 'आँखों में धूल झोंकना' = धोखा देना।
उत्तर: (D) mislead or deceive me
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionIdiomsSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q752.Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
O’ Henry’s short stories are read all over the world till now because they are pithy.
- Afascinating and lengthy
- Belusive and unreal
- Cexaggerated yet short
- Dconcise and expressive
Show answer
Concept: Pithy means brief but full of meaning – concise and forcefully expressive.
- O. Henry's stories are famously short with a twist ending, so 'pithy' praises their brevity and punch.
- 'Lengthy' contradicts brevity; 'elusive and unreal' and 'exaggerated' are not the meaning.
- Hence 'concise and expressive'.
Trick: Pith = the essential core; pithy = only the core, no extra words.
Answer: (D) concise and expressive
अवधारणा: Pithy का अर्थ है संक्षिप्त परंतु अर्थपूर्ण (concise and expressive)।
- O. Henry की कहानियाँ छोटी और प्रभावशाली होती हैं, इसलिए 'pithy' कहा गया।
- 'lengthy' (लंबा) उल्टा अर्थ है; 'elusive and unreal' या 'exaggerated' अर्थ नहीं हैं।
- अतः 'concise and expressive' सही है।
ट्रिक: Pith = सार; pithy = केवल सार, फालतू शब्द नहीं।
उत्तर: (D) concise and expressive
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionVocabulary – MeaningSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q753.Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
A plum job
- AAn easy and pleasant job
- BA rare job
- CA difficult job
- DA job involving extensive travelling
Show answer
Concept: A plum job is a very desirable job – easy, pleasant and usually well paid.
- 'Plum' as an adjective means excellent or most desirable.
- It says nothing about rarity, difficulty or travel.
- So the meaning is 'an easy and pleasant job'.
Trick: Plum = sweet fruit → a sweet (pleasant) job.
Answer: (A) An easy and pleasant job
अवधारणा: A plum job = आसान, सुखद और अच्छी तनख़्वाह वाली नौकरी।
- विशेषण के रूप में 'plum' का अर्थ है उत्तम/वांछनीय।
- इसमें दुर्लभ, कठिन या यात्रा वाला भाव नहीं है।
- अतः 'An easy and pleasant job' सही है।
ट्रिक: Plum = मीठा फल → मीठी (सुखद) नौकरी।
उत्तर: (A) An easy and pleasant job
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionIdiomsSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q754.Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’.
I like to read books, but my brother prefers to watching movies.
- Ain watching
- Bto watch
- Con watching
- DNo substitution
Show answer
Concept: Prefer takes either a to-infinitive (prefer to watch) or a gerund (prefer watching); 'prefer to watching' mixes both.
- The sentence is parallel to 'I like to read', so the infinitive fits: 'prefers to watch'.
- 'In/on watching' are wrong prepositions after prefer.
- The underlined part must change, so 'No substitution' is wrong.
Trick: prefer + to + V1 or prefer + V-ing – never 'to + V-ing' here.
Answer: (B) to watch
अवधारणा: Prefer के बाद या तो to + V1 (prefer to watch) या gerund (prefer watching) आता है; 'prefer to watching' गलत मिश्रण है।
- वाक्य 'I like to read' के समानांतर है, इसलिए 'prefers to watch' उचित है।
- 'in/on watching' गलत preposition हैं।
- बदलाव ज़रूरी है, इसलिए 'No substitution' गलत है।
ट्रिक: prefer + to + V1 या prefer + V-ing; 'to + V-ing' नहीं।
उत्तर: (B) to watch
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionSentence ImprovementSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q755.Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Glad
- AKeen
- BLoyal
- CSad
- DPleased
Show answer
Concept: Glad means happy or pleased.
- Opposite of happy = sad.
- 'Pleased' is a synonym; 'keen' means eager; 'loyal' means faithful.
Trick: Glad ↔ Sad (they even rhyme).
Answer: (C) Sad
अवधारणा: Glad का अर्थ है खुश/प्रसन्न।
- खुश का विलोम = दुखी (Sad)।
- 'Pleased' समानार्थी है; 'keen' = उत्सुक; 'loyal' = वफ़ादार।
ट्रिक: Glad ↔ Sad – तुकबंदी से याद रखें।
उत्तर: (C) Sad
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionAntonymsSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q756.The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
There is a spectrum / of seas around that / land which attracts / tourists of all aging.
- Atourists of all aging.
- BThere is a spectrum
- Cland which attracts
- Dof seas around that
Show answer
Concept: The fixed phrase is people of all ages – 'age' (noun) is needed, not 'aging' (a verb form/gerund meaning growing old).
- 'tourists of all aging' is ungrammatical.
- Correct: 'tourists of all ages'.
- The other segments are fine.
Trick: of all ages / of all sizes / of all kinds – plural noun after 'all'.
Answer: (A) tourists of all aging.
अवधारणा: सही प्रयोग of all ages है – यहाँ noun 'ages' चाहिए, 'aging' (बूढ़ा होना) नहीं।
- 'tourists of all aging' व्याकरणिक रूप से गलत है।
- सही: 'tourists of all ages'।
- बाकी भाग सही हैं।
ट्रिक: of all + plural noun: ages, kinds, sizes।
उत्तर: (A) tourists of all aging.
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionError SpottingSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q757.Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined word.
Saurabh imitates his boss perfectly.
- AAdmires
- BWorships
- CCopies
- DHates
Show answer
Concept: Imitate means to copy someone's actions, voice or manner.
- Saurabh copies (mimics) his boss perfectly.
- 'Admires', 'worships' and 'hates' are feelings, not acts of copying.
Trick: Imitation = copy (an 'imitation' necklace is a copy).
Answer: (C) Copies
अवधारणा: Imitate = नकल करना।
- सौरभ अपने बॉस की हूबहू नकल करता है।
- 'Admires' (प्रशंसा), 'worships' (पूजा), 'hates' (घृणा) – ये भावनाएँ हैं, नकल नहीं।
ट्रिक: Imitation jewellery = नकली (कॉपी) गहने।
उत्तर: (C) Copies
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionVocabulary – MeaningSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q758.Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Unequivocal
- AComplete
- BArticulate
- CUnambiguous
- DDoubted
Show answer
Concept: Unequivocal = leaving no doubt; clear and having only one meaning.
- Equivocal = ambiguous; un- + equivocal = not ambiguous = unambiguous.
- 'Doubted' is nearly opposite; 'complete' and 'articulate' differ in meaning.
Trick: un-equi-vocal → not 'equal voices' (two meanings) → one clear meaning.
Answer: (C) Unambiguous
अवधारणा: Unequivocal = स्पष्ट, असंदिग्ध (जिसमें कोई संदेह न हो)।
- Equivocal = अस्पष्ट/दो अर्थ वाला; un + equivocal = स्पष्ट = Unambiguous।
- 'Doubted' लगभग विलोम है; 'complete', 'articulate' अलग अर्थ हैं।
ट्रिक: un + equivocal = un + ambiguous।
उत्तर: (C) Unambiguous
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionSynonymsSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q759.In the following sentence, four words are underlined, out of which one word is
incorrectly spelt. Identify the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
Traffic accidents are increasing steadily, and large cities are plaged by traffic
congestion. Worst of all is the air pollution caused by internal combustion engine,
uninterruptedly.
- Aplaged
- Buninterruptedly
- Ccongestion
- Dcombustion
Show answer
Concept: The correct spelling is plagued (to be troubled continually).
- 'plaged' drops the 'u' of plague.
- congestion, combustion and uninterruptedly are spelt correctly.
Trick: plague → plagued (keep 'gue', add 'd').
Answer: (A) plaged
अवधारणा: सही वर्तनी plagued है (लगातार परेशान रहना)।
- 'plaged' में plague का 'u' छूट गया है।
- congestion, combustion, uninterruptedly सही हैं।
ट्रिक: plague → plagued ('gue' बना रहता है)।
उत्तर: (A) plaged
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionSpellingSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
Q760.Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Keep count of
- ATo remind of a deadline
- BTo act more politely
- CTo remember a total
- DTo accept an invitation
Show answer
Concept: Keep count of means to keep track of a number or total; to remember how many there are.
- e.g. 'I've lost count of how many times he called.'
- Deadlines, politeness and invitations are unrelated.
Trick: count → number → total.
Answer: (C) To remember a total
अवधारणा: Keep count of = गिनती याद रखना, कुल संख्या का हिसाब रखना।
- जैसे 'I have lost count' = मैं गिनती भूल गया।
- deadline, विनम्रता या निमंत्रण से इसका संबंध नहीं।
ट्रिक: count = गिनती → total याद रखना।
उत्तर: (C) To remember a total
SSC CPO Paper IEnglish ComprehensionIdiomsSSC CPO Paper I 2023 · 3 Oct Shift 3
