Reading Comprehension Previous Year Questions (page 4)
185 Reading Comprehension (English) questions asked in BPSC TRE previous year papers, each with the correct answer and explanation. Read them free on UTpaper, or attempt the full papers as timed online tests.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (102).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Adescription
Bpainting
Cwriting
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) description
Explanation
The attitude is detected in how fast food is presented in their narratives, i.e. in the description of fast food.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (103).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Acooks
Bauthors
Cwriters
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The narratives belong to established authors or writers (as opposed to popular cookbooks and dailies). Both ‘authors’ and ‘writers’ fit, so (D).
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (104).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Apraise
Bhate
Cflay
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) praise
Explanation
The ‘while’ clause sets up a contrast with the disapproving attitude, so the popular writings praise the virtues of fast food.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (105).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Agaze
Blook
Cinspection
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) look
Explanation
‘A quick look through’ is the natural phrase for glancing over something; a ‘gaze’ is long and an ‘inspection’ is careful, not quick.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (106).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Agood
Bleading
Cweekly
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) leading
Explanation
The Hindu is a daily, and a major one, so ‘a leading Indian newspaper’ is the right description.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (107).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Arequired
Bneeded
Callotted
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The recipes stress the time required or needed to cook; both words fit, so (D).
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (108).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Aused
Bnot used
Cleft
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) used
Explanation
The recipes highlight the appliances which are used in cooking (such as the microwave mentioned later).
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (109).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Aorder
Binstruction
Cparagraph
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) instruction
Explanation
‘No cooking required’ printed on the pack is an instruction to the user.
Read the passage and choose the right word for blank (110).
While a certain ____(101)____ attitude can be detected in the ____(102)____ of fast food in the narratives of the established ____(103)____, the popular writings which appear in cookbooks and dailies ____(104)____ the virtues of fast food. A quick ____(105)____ through some of the recipes published in ‘Metro Plus’ in The Hindu, a ____(106)____ Indian newspaper, will show the importance given to the time ____(107)____ to cook as well as the appliances which are ____(108)____ in cooking. On the cover of a popular ‘Readymade Paneer’, I have come across the ____(109)____ ‘no cooking required’. All that is required is heating the food in a microwave oven. This is probably the other end of the ____(110)____ of food writing in India where minimalism has become the buzzword. More importantly, their entry into the group of Indian English writers also signals a significant shift in the way we look at Indian writing in English.
Aspectrum
Bfield
Cgenre
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The writer places this minimalism at ‘the other end of the spectrum’ of food writing; the key also accepts another of the given words (such as ‘field’), so (D).
What is the name of the author whose story "Sarrasine" Roland Barthes examines?
ATolstoy
BNabokov
CMaxim Gorky
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
In 'S/Z' (1970) Roland Barthes analyses Balzac's novella 'Sarrasine' line by line. Balzac is not among Tolstoy, Nabokov or Gorky, so the answer is (E).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The reformer must know that what moves people is the authentic life, not mere writing. The newspaper and journals that Tilak and other reformers ran, the books they wrote, sold little, but had enormous effect. Their writing was known to reflect and be just an extension of, their exemplary lives. It was the authenticity of their lives which lent weight to their message, to their example. All knew that their lives were an integral whole - they were not moral in public life and lack in private, not vice versa. They were not full of pious thoughts and sacred resolutions within the walls of a temple. A writer who is merely entertaining his readers, even one who is merely informing them, can do what he wants with the rest of his life. But the writer, who sets out to use his pen to reform public life, cannot afford such dualities. Here is the testimony of one great man - about the influence of another, Lokmanya Tilak. “I believe that an editor who has anything worth saying and who commands a clientele cannot easily be hushed. He delivered his finished message as soon as he is put under duress. Tilak spoke more eloquently from the Mandalay fortress than through columns of the printed Kesari. His influence was multiplied thousand - fold by his imprisonment and his speech and his pen had acquired much greater power after he was discharged than before his imprisonment. By his death we have been editing his paper without pen and speech through the sacred resolution of the people to realize his life’s dream. He could possibly have done more if he were today in flesh preaching his view. Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that. Today, his message rules millions of hearts which are determined to raise permanent living memorial by the fulfilment of his ambition in their lives”.
Which of the following is the general tendency of critics according to the passage?
Ato justify their criticism
Bto find fault in expression
Cto praise the writers and the reformers
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) to find fault in expression
Explanation
The quoted speaker says, 'Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that', so finding fault with expression is the critics' tendency.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The reformer must know that what moves people is the authentic life, not mere writing. The newspaper and journals that Tilak and other reformers ran, the books they wrote, sold little, but had enormous effect. Their writing was known to reflect and be just an extension of, their exemplary lives. It was the authenticity of their lives which lent weight to their message, to their example. All knew that their lives were an integral whole - they were not moral in public life and lack in private, not vice versa. They were not full of pious thoughts and sacred resolutions within the walls of a temple. A writer who is merely entertaining his readers, even one who is merely informing them, can do what he wants with the rest of his life. But the writer, who sets out to use his pen to reform public life, cannot afford such dualities. Here is the testimony of one great man - about the influence of another, Lokmanya Tilak. “I believe that an editor who has anything worth saying and who commands a clientele cannot easily be hushed. He delivered his finished message as soon as he is put under duress. Tilak spoke more eloquently from the Mandalay fortress than through columns of the printed Kesari. His influence was multiplied thousand - fold by his imprisonment and his speech and his pen had acquired much greater power after he was discharged than before his imprisonment. By his death we have been editing his paper without pen and speech through the sacred resolution of the people to realize his life’s dream. He could possibly have done more if he were today in flesh preaching his view. Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that. Today, his message rules millions of hearts which are determined to raise permanent living memorial by the fulfilment of his ambition in their lives”.
According to the passage, a reformer becomes effective if ________
Ahe entertains the masses without any moral ideas
Bhe follows dogmatic conventions
Che condemns the authenticity of life
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
The passage says a reformer is effective when his own life is authentic and consistent with his message. None of the options (entertaining without morals, following dogma, condemning authenticity) says that, so the answer is (E).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The reformer must know that what moves people is the authentic life, not mere writing. The newspaper and journals that Tilak and other reformers ran, the books they wrote, sold little, but had enormous effect. Their writing was known to reflect and be just an extension of, their exemplary lives. It was the authenticity of their lives which lent weight to their message, to their example. All knew that their lives were an integral whole - they were not moral in public life and lack in private, not vice versa. They were not full of pious thoughts and sacred resolutions within the walls of a temple. A writer who is merely entertaining his readers, even one who is merely informing them, can do what he wants with the rest of his life. But the writer, who sets out to use his pen to reform public life, cannot afford such dualities. Here is the testimony of one great man - about the influence of another, Lokmanya Tilak. “I believe that an editor who has anything worth saying and who commands a clientele cannot easily be hushed. He delivered his finished message as soon as he is put under duress. Tilak spoke more eloquently from the Mandalay fortress than through columns of the printed Kesari. His influence was multiplied thousand - fold by his imprisonment and his speech and his pen had acquired much greater power after he was discharged than before his imprisonment. By his death we have been editing his paper without pen and speech through the sacred resolution of the people to realize his life’s dream. He could possibly have done more if he were today in flesh preaching his view. Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that. Today, his message rules millions of hearts which are determined to raise permanent living memorial by the fulfilment of his ambition in their lives”.
The word 'duress' used in the passage means __________.
Acoercion
Bconstraint
Cindependence
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
'Duress' means threats, force or restraint used to make someone act against their will, so both 'coercion' and 'constraint' fit; the answer is (D).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The reformer must know that what moves people is the authentic life, not mere writing. The newspaper and journals that Tilak and other reformers ran, the books they wrote, sold little, but had enormous effect. Their writing was known to reflect and be just an extension of, their exemplary lives. It was the authenticity of their lives which lent weight to their message, to their example. All knew that their lives were an integral whole - they were not moral in public life and lack in private, not vice versa. They were not full of pious thoughts and sacred resolutions within the walls of a temple. A writer who is merely entertaining his readers, even one who is merely informing them, can do what he wants with the rest of his life. But the writer, who sets out to use his pen to reform public life, cannot afford such dualities. Here is the testimony of one great man - about the influence of another, Lokmanya Tilak. “I believe that an editor who has anything worth saying and who commands a clientele cannot easily be hushed. He delivered his finished message as soon as he is put under duress. Tilak spoke more eloquently from the Mandalay fortress than through columns of the printed Kesari. His influence was multiplied thousand - fold by his imprisonment and his speech and his pen had acquired much greater power after he was discharged than before his imprisonment. By his death we have been editing his paper without pen and speech through the sacred resolution of the people to realize his life’s dream. He could possibly have done more if he were today in flesh preaching his view. Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that. Today, his message rules millions of hearts which are determined to raise permanent living memorial by the fulfilment of his ambition in their lives”.
What is 'set out' used in the passage?
APhrasal verb
BGerund
CParticiple
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Phrasal verb
Explanation
'Set out' (to begin an undertaking with a purpose) is a verb plus an adverb particle with a single meaning, that is, a phrasal verb.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The reformer must know that what moves people is the authentic life, not mere writing. The newspaper and journals that Tilak and other reformers ran, the books they wrote, sold little, but had enormous effect. Their writing was known to reflect and be just an extension of, their exemplary lives. It was the authenticity of their lives which lent weight to their message, to their example. All knew that their lives were an integral whole - they were not moral in public life and lack in private, not vice versa. They were not full of pious thoughts and sacred resolutions within the walls of a temple. A writer who is merely entertaining his readers, even one who is merely informing them, can do what he wants with the rest of his life. But the writer, who sets out to use his pen to reform public life, cannot afford such dualities. Here is the testimony of one great man - about the influence of another, Lokmanya Tilak. “I believe that an editor who has anything worth saying and who commands a clientele cannot easily be hushed. He delivered his finished message as soon as he is put under duress. Tilak spoke more eloquently from the Mandalay fortress than through columns of the printed Kesari. His influence was multiplied thousand - fold by his imprisonment and his speech and his pen had acquired much greater power after he was discharged than before his imprisonment. By his death we have been editing his paper without pen and speech through the sacred resolution of the people to realize his life’s dream. He could possibly have done more if he were today in flesh preaching his view. Critics like me would perhaps be still finding fault in the expression of this or that. Today, his message rules millions of hearts which are determined to raise permanent living memorial by the fulfilment of his ambition in their lives”.
Choose the verb form of the word 'authenticity' used in the passage.
AAuthenticate
BAuthenticated
CAuthentic
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The verb related to 'authenticity' is 'authenticate'; 'authenticated' is the past form of the same verb. The key accepts both, so the answer is (D).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming. Some Indian politicians use it to great advantage. When there is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis, they deflect attention from their own incompetence towards the ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection, some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has been using the internet and social networking sites to spread dangerous rumours. And the Centre’s automatic reaction is to start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the cyber-world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the 245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being governed. This is what its leaders should be addressing immediately, rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of censorship. It is just as absurd and part of the same syndrome, to try to ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime Minister’s Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent as “misrepresenting” the PMO as if Twitterers would take these parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber-world for flexing the wrongheaded is essentially not funny. It might even prove to be quite dangerously distracting.
The passage suggests different ways of keeping the public busy with 'inessentials'. Pick the odd one out.
Aby blocking websites
Bby blaming neighbouring countries
Cby worrying about bilateral relation
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
Note: the official key gives (D); the passage itself names blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations as ways of keeping busy with inessentials, so none of the three is really the odd one out. The key treats more than one option as the answer.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming. Some Indian politicians use it to great advantage. When there is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis, they deflect attention from their own incompetence towards the ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection, some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has been using the internet and social networking sites to spread dangerous rumours. And the Centre’s automatic reaction is to start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the cyber-world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the 245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being governed. This is what its leaders should be addressing immediately, rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of censorship. It is just as absurd and part of the same syndrome, to try to ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime Minister’s Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent as “misrepresenting” the PMO as if Twitterers would take these parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber-world for flexing the wrongheaded is essentially not funny. It might even prove to be quite dangerously distracting.
According to the passage, the cyber world is ___________
Aimmobile
Bfragile
Cindocile
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) indocile
Explanation
The passage opens by saying 'Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable'. 'Indocile' means unruly or not easily controlled, which matches.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming. Some Indian politicians use it to great advantage. When there is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis, they deflect attention from their own incompetence towards the ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection, some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has been using the internet and social networking sites to spread dangerous rumours. And the Centre’s automatic reaction is to start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the cyber-world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the 245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being governed. This is what its leaders should be addressing immediately, rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of censorship. It is just as absurd and part of the same syndrome, to try to ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime Minister’s Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent as “misrepresenting” the PMO as if Twitterers would take these parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber-world for flexing the wrongheaded is essentially not funny. It might even prove to be quite dangerously distracting.
The word used in this passage 'spurious' means
Abona fide
Bfake
Cauthentic
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) fake
Explanation
'Spurious' means false or fake, as in 'morphed images and spurious texts'. 'Bona fide' and 'authentic' are its opposites.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming. Some Indian politicians use it to great advantage. When there is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis, they deflect attention from their own incompetence towards the ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection, some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has been using the internet and social networking sites to spread dangerous rumours. And the Centre’s automatic reaction is to start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the cyber-world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the 245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being governed. This is what its leaders should be addressing immediately, rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of censorship. It is just as absurd and part of the same syndrome, to try to ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime Minister’s Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent as “misrepresenting” the PMO as if Twitterers would take these parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber-world for flexing the wrongheaded is essentially not funny. It might even prove to be quite dangerously distracting.
The word 'nebulous' used in the passage is ________.
AAdverb
BNoun
CVerb
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
In 'the nebulous mischief-makers', 'nebulous' (vague, ill-defined) qualifies a noun, so it is an adjective, which is not among the options.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Cyber-world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming. Some Indian politicians use it to great advantage. When there is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis, they deflect attention from their own incompetence towards the ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection, some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has been using the internet and social networking sites to spread dangerous rumours. And the Centre’s automatic reaction is to start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the cyber-world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely suspicious websites, hurling accusations across the border and worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the 245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being governed. This is what its leaders should be addressing immediately, rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of censorship. It is just as absurd and part of the same syndrome, to try to ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime Minister’s Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent as “misrepresenting” the PMO as if Twitterers would take these parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber-world for flexing the wrongheaded is essentially not funny. It might even prove to be quite dangerously distracting.
The author warns us against
Areformer's role
Bpoliticians campaign
Cfalse practices by the citizens
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
The author warns against the government's wrong-headed reaction: blocking websites, using censorship and busying itself with inessentials instead of real governance. None of the listed options states this, so the answer is (E).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
A Close look at the facts relating to political interference in administration shows that it is not a one-way process. There is often a nexus between power hungry and corrupt politicians and civil servants with convenient principles. Many civil servants are only too anxious to oblige the politicians and then cash the obligation when they need some special favour. So, the attitude of self-righteousness adopted by the civil service is sometimes only a way of covering their own flaws by blaming others. Every now and then some retired civil servants come out with his memoirs, painting a glorious picture of the heights of administrative efficiency reached during his reign. There is often the suggestion that had there not been so much political interference, things would have been even more fantastic. It is not unusual for the self-styled hero to blame not only interfering politicians but also fellow civil servants who are idiots or crooks, for his failures. This attitude of smug self-satisfaction is, unfortunately, developed during the years of service. Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures. The remedy has to be drastic and quickly effective. The over protection now granted to civil servants must end. Today to remove an erring civil servant is just not possible. And the only thing that the highest authority in the Government, both in the State and at the Centre, can do is to transfer an official from one job to another The rules for taking disciplinary action are so complicated that, in the end, the defaulting civil servants gets away and gets his full emoluments even for the period of the disciplinary proceedings, thus making it a paid holiday for him. The result is that the administration has become rule-oriented and not result - oriented. Action is possible against the official who takes some interest in his work, but no action is ever taken against a person who does not deliver the goods. If the country is to adopt a result-oriented approach, it is necessary to link job performance with job retention.
The writer refers to a paid holiday to support his argument that
Adisciplinary action is generally not effective
Bbureaucrats get extra respect
Ccivil servants seem to be on holiday even when on duty
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) disciplinary action is generally not effective
Explanation
The author says that because disciplinary rules are so complicated, the defaulting civil servant gets away with full pay for the period of the proceedings, a 'paid holiday'. This supports the point that disciplinary action is not effective.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
A Close look at the facts relating to political interference in administration shows that it is not a one-way process. There is often a nexus between power hungry and corrupt politicians and civil servants with convenient principles. Many civil servants are only too anxious to oblige the politicians and then cash the obligation when they need some special favour. So, the attitude of self-righteousness adopted by the civil service is sometimes only a way of covering their own flaws by blaming others. Every now and then some retired civil servants come out with his memoirs, painting a glorious picture of the heights of administrative efficiency reached during his reign. There is often the suggestion that had there not been so much political interference, things would have been even more fantastic. It is not unusual for the self-styled hero to blame not only interfering politicians but also fellow civil servants who are idiots or crooks, for his failures. This attitude of smug self-satisfaction is, unfortunately, developed during the years of service. Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures. The remedy has to be drastic and quickly effective. The over protection now granted to civil servants must end. Today to remove an erring civil servant is just not possible. And the only thing that the highest authority in the Government, both in the State and at the Centre, can do is to transfer an official from one job to another The rules for taking disciplinary action are so complicated that, in the end, the defaulting civil servants gets away and gets his full emoluments even for the period of the disciplinary proceedings, thus making it a paid holiday for him. The result is that the administration has become rule-oriented and not result - oriented. Action is possible against the official who takes some interest in his work, but no action is ever taken against a person who does not deliver the goods. If the country is to adopt a result-oriented approach, it is necessary to link job performance with job retention.
The expression 'deliver the goods' means
Aaccept bribes or other illegal favours
Bfollow the corrupt politician
Cshow good job performance
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) show good job performance
Explanation
To 'deliver the goods' means to do what is expected, that is, to perform the job well. The author contrasts it with officials who are never punished for non-performance.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
A Close look at the facts relating to political interference in administration shows that it is not a one-way process. There is often a nexus between power hungry and corrupt politicians and civil servants with convenient principles. Many civil servants are only too anxious to oblige the politicians and then cash the obligation when they need some special favour. So, the attitude of self-righteousness adopted by the civil service is sometimes only a way of covering their own flaws by blaming others. Every now and then some retired civil servants come out with his memoirs, painting a glorious picture of the heights of administrative efficiency reached during his reign. There is often the suggestion that had there not been so much political interference, things would have been even more fantastic. It is not unusual for the self-styled hero to blame not only interfering politicians but also fellow civil servants who are idiots or crooks, for his failures. This attitude of smug self-satisfaction is, unfortunately, developed during the years of service. Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures. The remedy has to be drastic and quickly effective. The over protection now granted to civil servants must end. Today to remove an erring civil servant is just not possible. And the only thing that the highest authority in the Government, both in the State and at the Centre, can do is to transfer an official from one job to another The rules for taking disciplinary action are so complicated that, in the end, the defaulting civil servants gets away and gets his full emoluments even for the period of the disciplinary proceedings, thus making it a paid holiday for him. The result is that the administration has become rule-oriented and not result - oriented. Action is possible against the official who takes some interest in his work, but no action is ever taken against a person who does not deliver the goods. If the country is to adopt a result-oriented approach, it is necessary to link job performance with job retention.
The existing system of administration seems to encourage civil servants
Ato become self-centred about their own gain
Bto present a glorious picture of the administration
Cto work for the haves not
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) to become self-centred about their own gain
Explanation
The passage says 'Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures', so the system makes civil servants self-centred about their own gain.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
A Close look at the facts relating to political interference in administration shows that it is not a one-way process. There is often a nexus between power hungry and corrupt politicians and civil servants with convenient principles. Many civil servants are only too anxious to oblige the politicians and then cash the obligation when they need some special favour. So, the attitude of self-righteousness adopted by the civil service is sometimes only a way of covering their own flaws by blaming others. Every now and then some retired civil servants come out with his memoirs, painting a glorious picture of the heights of administrative efficiency reached during his reign. There is often the suggestion that had there not been so much political interference, things would have been even more fantastic. It is not unusual for the self-styled hero to blame not only interfering politicians but also fellow civil servants who are idiots or crooks, for his failures. This attitude of smug self-satisfaction is, unfortunately, developed during the years of service. Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures. The remedy has to be drastic and quickly effective. The over protection now granted to civil servants must end. Today to remove an erring civil servant is just not possible. And the only thing that the highest authority in the Government, both in the State and at the Centre, can do is to transfer an official from one job to another The rules for taking disciplinary action are so complicated that, in the end, the defaulting civil servants gets away and gets his full emoluments even for the period of the disciplinary proceedings, thus making it a paid holiday for him. The result is that the administration has become rule-oriented and not result - oriented. Action is possible against the official who takes some interest in his work, but no action is ever taken against a person who does not deliver the goods. If the country is to adopt a result-oriented approach, it is necessary to link job performance with job retention.
According to the author, the administration is __________
Aresult oriented
Brule oriented
Cneither rule nor result oriented
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) rule oriented
Explanation
The author states that 'the administration has become rule-oriented and not result-oriented'.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
A Close look at the facts relating to political interference in administration shows that it is not a one-way process. There is often a nexus between power hungry and corrupt politicians and civil servants with convenient principles. Many civil servants are only too anxious to oblige the politicians and then cash the obligation when they need some special favour. So, the attitude of self-righteousness adopted by the civil service is sometimes only a way of covering their own flaws by blaming others. Every now and then some retired civil servants come out with his memoirs, painting a glorious picture of the heights of administrative efficiency reached during his reign. There is often the suggestion that had there not been so much political interference, things would have been even more fantastic. It is not unusual for the self-styled hero to blame not only interfering politicians but also fellow civil servants who are idiots or crooks, for his failures. This attitude of smug self-satisfaction is, unfortunately, developed during the years of service. Self-preservation rather than service is encouraged by our whole system of rules and procedures. The remedy has to be drastic and quickly effective. The over protection now granted to civil servants must end. Today to remove an erring civil servant is just not possible. And the only thing that the highest authority in the Government, both in the State and at the Centre, can do is to transfer an official from one job to another The rules for taking disciplinary action are so complicated that, in the end, the defaulting civil servants gets away and gets his full emoluments even for the period of the disciplinary proceedings, thus making it a paid holiday for him. The result is that the administration has become rule-oriented and not result - oriented. Action is possible against the official who takes some interest in his work, but no action is ever taken against a person who does not deliver the goods. If the country is to adopt a result-oriented approach, it is necessary to link job performance with job retention.
Choose the antonym of the word 'smug' used in the passage.
Acomplacent
Bmodest
Creserved
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
'Smug' means self-satisfied and complacent. Its antonyms include 'modest' and, as the key accepts, 'reserved'; 'complacent' is a synonym. So the answer is (D).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The great fear in Asia a short while ago was that the region would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. as a result of the financial crisis. Stock markets tumbled as exports plunged and economic growth deteriorated. Lofty property prices in China and elsewhere looked set to bust as credit tightened and buyers evaporated. But with surprising speed, fear in Asia swung back to greed as the region shows signs of recovery and property and stock prices are soaring in many parts of Asia. Why should this sharp Asian turnaround be greeted with skepticism? Higher asset prices mean households feel wealthier and better able to spend, which could further fuel the region’s nascent rebound. But just as easily, Asia could soon find itself saddled with overheated markets similar to the U.S. housing market. In short the world has not changed, it has just moved places. The incipient bubble is being created by government policy. In response to the global credit crunch of 2008, policy makers in Asia slashed interest rates and flooded financial sectors with cash in frantic attempts to keep loans flowing and economies growing. These steps were logical for central bankers striving to reverse a deepening economic crisis. But there’s evidence that there is too much easy money around. It’s winding up in stocks and real estate, pushing prices up too far and too fast for the underlying economic fundamentals. Much of the concern is focused on China, where government stimulus efforts have been large and effective. Money in China has been especially easy to find. Aggregate new bank lending surged 201% in the first half of 2009 from the same period a year earlier, to nearly $1.1 trillion. Exuberance over a quick recovery which was given a boost by China’s surprisingly strong 7.9% GDP growth in the second quarter - has buoyed investor sentiment not just for stocks but also for real estate. Former U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan argued the bubbles could only be recognized in hindsight. But investors who have been well schooled in the dangers of bubbles over the past decade are increasingly wary that prices have risen too far and that the slightest bit of negative economic news could knock markets for a loop. These fears are compounded by the possibility that Asia’s central bankers will begin taking steps to shut off the money. Rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit led to Shanghai stocks plunging 5%. Yet many economists believe that, “there is close to a zero possibility that the Chinese government will do anything this year that constitutes tightening.” And without a major-shift in thinking, the easy money conditions will stay in place. In a global economy that has produced more dramatic ups and downs than anyone thought possible over the past two years, Asia may be heading for another disheartening plunge.
What does the author want to convey through the phrase "the world has just moved places"?
AAsian governments are implementing the same economic reforms as the developed countries have done
BAsian countries don't believe in globalization
CEconomic reforms have no meaning for them
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) Asian governments are implementing the same economic reforms as the developed countries have done
Explanation
The author means the problem of over-heated, bubble-prone markets has not disappeared but moved from the U.S. to Asia, because Asian governments are now following the same easy-money policies the developed countries followed.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The great fear in Asia a short while ago was that the region would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. as a result of the financial crisis. Stock markets tumbled as exports plunged and economic growth deteriorated. Lofty property prices in China and elsewhere looked set to bust as credit tightened and buyers evaporated. But with surprising speed, fear in Asia swung back to greed as the region shows signs of recovery and property and stock prices are soaring in many parts of Asia. Why should this sharp Asian turnaround be greeted with skepticism? Higher asset prices mean households feel wealthier and better able to spend, which could further fuel the region’s nascent rebound. But just as easily, Asia could soon find itself saddled with overheated markets similar to the U.S. housing market. In short the world has not changed, it has just moved places. The incipient bubble is being created by government policy. In response to the global credit crunch of 2008, policy makers in Asia slashed interest rates and flooded financial sectors with cash in frantic attempts to keep loans flowing and economies growing. These steps were logical for central bankers striving to reverse a deepening economic crisis. But there’s evidence that there is too much easy money around. It’s winding up in stocks and real estate, pushing prices up too far and too fast for the underlying economic fundamentals. Much of the concern is focused on China, where government stimulus efforts have been large and effective. Money in China has been especially easy to find. Aggregate new bank lending surged 201% in the first half of 2009 from the same period a year earlier, to nearly $1.1 trillion. Exuberance over a quick recovery which was given a boost by China’s surprisingly strong 7.9% GDP growth in the second quarter - has buoyed investor sentiment not just for stocks but also for real estate. Former U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan argued the bubbles could only be recognized in hindsight. But investors who have been well schooled in the dangers of bubbles over the past decade are increasingly wary that prices have risen too far and that the slightest bit of negative economic news could knock markets for a loop. These fears are compounded by the possibility that Asia’s central bankers will begin taking steps to shut off the money. Rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit led to Shanghai stocks plunging 5%. Yet many economists believe that, “there is close to a zero possibility that the Chinese government will do anything this year that constitutes tightening.” And without a major-shift in thinking, the easy money conditions will stay in place. In a global economy that has produced more dramatic ups and downs than anyone thought possible over the past two years, Asia may be heading for another disheartening plunge.
Which of the following is not synonym of the word 'Skepticism' used in the passage?
Aincredulity
Bdistrustfulness
Ccertitude
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) certitude
Explanation
Skepticism means doubt or disbelief, so 'incredulity' and 'distrustfulness' are synonyms. 'Certitude' (certainty) is its opposite, so it is not a synonym.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The great fear in Asia a short while ago was that the region would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. as a result of the financial crisis. Stock markets tumbled as exports plunged and economic growth deteriorated. Lofty property prices in China and elsewhere looked set to bust as credit tightened and buyers evaporated. But with surprising speed, fear in Asia swung back to greed as the region shows signs of recovery and property and stock prices are soaring in many parts of Asia. Why should this sharp Asian turnaround be greeted with skepticism? Higher asset prices mean households feel wealthier and better able to spend, which could further fuel the region’s nascent rebound. But just as easily, Asia could soon find itself saddled with overheated markets similar to the U.S. housing market. In short the world has not changed, it has just moved places. The incipient bubble is being created by government policy. In response to the global credit crunch of 2008, policy makers in Asia slashed interest rates and flooded financial sectors with cash in frantic attempts to keep loans flowing and economies growing. These steps were logical for central bankers striving to reverse a deepening economic crisis. But there’s evidence that there is too much easy money around. It’s winding up in stocks and real estate, pushing prices up too far and too fast for the underlying economic fundamentals. Much of the concern is focused on China, where government stimulus efforts have been large and effective. Money in China has been especially easy to find. Aggregate new bank lending surged 201% in the first half of 2009 from the same period a year earlier, to nearly $1.1 trillion. Exuberance over a quick recovery which was given a boost by China’s surprisingly strong 7.9% GDP growth in the second quarter - has buoyed investor sentiment not just for stocks but also for real estate. Former U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan argued the bubbles could only be recognized in hindsight. But investors who have been well schooled in the dangers of bubbles over the past decade are increasingly wary that prices have risen too far and that the slightest bit of negative economic news could knock markets for a loop. These fears are compounded by the possibility that Asia’s central bankers will begin taking steps to shut off the money. Rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit led to Shanghai stocks plunging 5%. Yet many economists believe that, “there is close to a zero possibility that the Chinese government will do anything this year that constitutes tightening.” And without a major-shift in thinking, the easy money conditions will stay in place. In a global economy that has produced more dramatic ups and downs than anyone thought possible over the past two years, Asia may be heading for another disheartening plunge.
What was the rumour in China?
AChina's GDP is surprisingly strong
BChina is facing financial crunch
CThe incipient bubble was the part of government policy
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (B) China is facing financial crunch
Explanation
The passage says there were rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit, that is, money would become scarce; the key matches this with China facing a financial (credit) crunch.
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The great fear in Asia a short while ago was that the region would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. as a result of the financial crisis. Stock markets tumbled as exports plunged and economic growth deteriorated. Lofty property prices in China and elsewhere looked set to bust as credit tightened and buyers evaporated. But with surprising speed, fear in Asia swung back to greed as the region shows signs of recovery and property and stock prices are soaring in many parts of Asia. Why should this sharp Asian turnaround be greeted with skepticism? Higher asset prices mean households feel wealthier and better able to spend, which could further fuel the region’s nascent rebound. But just as easily, Asia could soon find itself saddled with overheated markets similar to the U.S. housing market. In short the world has not changed, it has just moved places. The incipient bubble is being created by government policy. In response to the global credit crunch of 2008, policy makers in Asia slashed interest rates and flooded financial sectors with cash in frantic attempts to keep loans flowing and economies growing. These steps were logical for central bankers striving to reverse a deepening economic crisis. But there’s evidence that there is too much easy money around. It’s winding up in stocks and real estate, pushing prices up too far and too fast for the underlying economic fundamentals. Much of the concern is focused on China, where government stimulus efforts have been large and effective. Money in China has been especially easy to find. Aggregate new bank lending surged 201% in the first half of 2009 from the same period a year earlier, to nearly $1.1 trillion. Exuberance over a quick recovery which was given a boost by China’s surprisingly strong 7.9% GDP growth in the second quarter - has buoyed investor sentiment not just for stocks but also for real estate. Former U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan argued the bubbles could only be recognized in hindsight. But investors who have been well schooled in the dangers of bubbles over the past decade are increasingly wary that prices have risen too far and that the slightest bit of negative economic news could knock markets for a loop. These fears are compounded by the possibility that Asia’s central bankers will begin taking steps to shut off the money. Rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit led to Shanghai stocks plunging 5%. Yet many economists believe that, “there is close to a zero possibility that the Chinese government will do anything this year that constitutes tightening.” And without a major-shift in thinking, the easy money conditions will stay in place. In a global economy that has produced more dramatic ups and downs than anyone thought possible over the past two years, Asia may be heading for another disheartening plunge.
What was the great fear in Asia?
AAsia would lead the world economy
BAsia would increase its exim policy
CAsia would borrow loan from US Federal Bank
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (E) None of the above
Explanation
The great fear was that Asia would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. because of the financial crisis. None of the options states this, so the answer is (E).
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
The great fear in Asia a short while ago was that the region would suffer through the wealth destruction already taking place in the U.S. as a result of the financial crisis. Stock markets tumbled as exports plunged and economic growth deteriorated. Lofty property prices in China and elsewhere looked set to bust as credit tightened and buyers evaporated. But with surprising speed, fear in Asia swung back to greed as the region shows signs of recovery and property and stock prices are soaring in many parts of Asia. Why should this sharp Asian turnaround be greeted with skepticism? Higher asset prices mean households feel wealthier and better able to spend, which could further fuel the region’s nascent rebound. But just as easily, Asia could soon find itself saddled with overheated markets similar to the U.S. housing market. In short the world has not changed, it has just moved places. The incipient bubble is being created by government policy. In response to the global credit crunch of 2008, policy makers in Asia slashed interest rates and flooded financial sectors with cash in frantic attempts to keep loans flowing and economies growing. These steps were logical for central bankers striving to reverse a deepening economic crisis. But there’s evidence that there is too much easy money around. It’s winding up in stocks and real estate, pushing prices up too far and too fast for the underlying economic fundamentals. Much of the concern is focused on China, where government stimulus efforts have been large and effective. Money in China has been especially easy to find. Aggregate new bank lending surged 201% in the first half of 2009 from the same period a year earlier, to nearly $1.1 trillion. Exuberance over a quick recovery which was given a boost by China’s surprisingly strong 7.9% GDP growth in the second quarter - has buoyed investor sentiment not just for stocks but also for real estate. Former U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan argued the bubbles could only be recognized in hindsight. But investors who have been well schooled in the dangers of bubbles over the past decade are increasingly wary that prices have risen too far and that the slightest bit of negative economic news could knock markets for a loop. These fears are compounded by the possibility that Asia’s central bankers will begin taking steps to shut off the money. Rumours that Beijing was on the verge of tightening credit led to Shanghai stocks plunging 5%. Yet many economists believe that, “there is close to a zero possibility that the Chinese government will do anything this year that constitutes tightening.” And without a major-shift in thinking, the easy money conditions will stay in place. In a global economy that has produced more dramatic ups and downs than anyone thought possible over the past two years, Asia may be heading for another disheartening plunge.
Choose the opposite of the word 'exuberance' used in the passage.
Alifelessness
Bvibrancy
Cvivaciousness
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (A) lifelessness
Explanation
'Exuberance' means liveliness and high spirits; 'vibrancy' and 'vivaciousness' are synonyms, while 'lifelessness' is its opposite.
Q181BPSC TRE 3.0 (2024) Computer Science Class 11-12
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Kerala is just the place for you if you love variety. There is something here to please everyone. You are sure to fall in love with the serene beauty of Kerala's magical backwaters. When you have experienced that, you can sample the excitement of Kerala's bustling cities or retreat into the villages to see at first-hand how time can stand still. Better still, take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills, to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms if that makes your tastebuds tingle and fills you with dreams of food, you need not worry. Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours. The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind. Your meal would be incomplete without appam, rasam, fish curry and some delicious payasam. To wash it down, sip the naturally refreshing water of a tender coconut. And when you had your fill, move into the markets to shop for gold, handicrafts, spices, cashew nuts and coffee. Bargain-hunters will never have a problem since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
Why is Kerala just the place for you if you love variety?
AThere is something here to please everyone
BKerala has magical backwaters
CKerala is very boring
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
The passage says "There is something here to please everyone" and praises Kerala's magical backwaters as an example of its variety, so both (A) and (B) are supported; (C) contradicts the passage.
Q182BPSC TRE 3.0 (2024) Computer Science Class 11-12
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Kerala is just the place for you if you love variety. There is something here to please everyone. You are sure to fall in love with the serene beauty of Kerala's magical backwaters. When you have experienced that, you can sample the excitement of Kerala's bustling cities or retreat into the villages to see at first-hand how time can stand still. Better still, take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills, to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms if that makes your tastebuds tingle and fills you with dreams of food, you need not worry. Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours. The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind. Your meal would be incomplete without appam, rasam, fish curry and some delicious payasam. To wash it down, sip the naturally refreshing water of a tender coconut. And when you had your fill, move into the markets to shop for gold, handicrafts, spices, cashew nuts and coffee. Bargain-hunters will never have a problem since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
Why should you take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills?
ATo count the spices that are grown there
BTo buy some spices
CTo inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) To inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms
Explanation
The passage advises a trip to the spice gardens in the hills "to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms"; counting or buying spices is not mentioned.
Q183BPSC TRE 3.0 (2024) Computer Science Class 11-12
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Kerala is just the place for you if you love variety. There is something here to please everyone. You are sure to fall in love with the serene beauty of Kerala's magical backwaters. When you have experienced that, you can sample the excitement of Kerala's bustling cities or retreat into the villages to see at first-hand how time can stand still. Better still, take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills, to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms if that makes your tastebuds tingle and fills you with dreams of food, you need not worry. Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours. The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind. Your meal would be incomplete without appam, rasam, fish curry and some delicious payasam. To wash it down, sip the naturally refreshing water of a tender coconut. And when you had your fill, move into the markets to shop for gold, handicrafts, spices, cashew nuts and coffee. Bargain-hunters will never have a problem since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
What is Kerala's cuisine known for?
AFor its bad taste
BFor being bland
CFor its spicy hot flavours
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) For its spicy hot flavours
Explanation
The passage states directly: "Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours."
Q184BPSC TRE 3.0 (2024) Computer Science Class 11-12
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Kerala is just the place for you if you love variety. There is something here to please everyone. You are sure to fall in love with the serene beauty of Kerala's magical backwaters. When you have experienced that, you can sample the excitement of Kerala's bustling cities or retreat into the villages to see at first-hand how time can stand still. Better still, take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills, to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms if that makes your tastebuds tingle and fills you with dreams of food, you need not worry. Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours. The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind. Your meal would be incomplete without appam, rasam, fish curry and some delicious payasam. To wash it down, sip the naturally refreshing water of a tender coconut. And when you had your fill, move into the markets to shop for gold, handicrafts, spices, cashew nuts and coffee. Bargain-hunters will never have a problem since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
What gives sea food its pungency?
ACoconut and spices
BCoconut & spices enhanced by tamarind
CAddition of cocacola
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
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Correct answer: (D) More than one of the above
Explanation
"The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood - a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind", so both (A) and (B) describe it; Coca-Cola is not mentioned.
Q185BPSC TRE 3.0 (2024) Computer Science Class 11-12
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows:
Kerala is just the place for you if you love variety. There is something here to please everyone. You are sure to fall in love with the serene beauty of Kerala's magical backwaters. When you have experienced that, you can sample the excitement of Kerala's bustling cities or retreat into the villages to see at first-hand how time can stand still. Better still, take a trip to the spice gardens in the hills, to inhale the fragrance of fresh cardamoms if that makes your tastebuds tingle and fills you with dreams of food, you need not worry. Kerala's cuisine is known for its spicy hot flavours. The coconut and the spices give the food - especially the seafood a pungency that is enhanced by tamarind. Your meal would be incomplete without appam, rasam, fish curry and some delicious payasam. To wash it down, sip the naturally refreshing water of a tender coconut. And when you had your fill, move into the markets to shop for gold, handicrafts, spices, cashew nuts and coffee. Bargain-hunters will never have a problem since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
Why would foreign bargain-hunter visitors never face a problem in Kerala?
AMany foreign languages are spoken in Kerala
BHindi is the language of communication in the cities of kerala.
CEnglish is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
DMore than one of the above
ENone of the above
Show answerHide answer
Correct answer: (C) English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala.
Explanation
The last line says bargain-hunters never have a problem "since English is spoken and understood everywhere in Kerala".
How to use these BPSC TRE English questions
Every question here was asked in a real BPSC TRE paper; the paper and shift are shown on the card, and the number opens the question on its own page. Try each one before tapping Show answer, then attempt the full BPSC TRE papers as timed tests to check your speed under exam conditions.