The committee, which oversee multiple departments, (1)/ has been granted additional funds (2)/ to implement the new sustainability policies (3)/ across all regional offices. (4)

SSC CGL 14/09/2025 (Shift 2)

According to the “Subject-Verb Agreement Rule,” a singular subject always takes a singular verb and a plural subject always takes a plural verb. In the given sentence, the subject “committee” is a collective noun and acts as a single unit. Hence, “which oversees multiple departments” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Collective noun takes a singular verb

The research team concluded that (1)/ each participant must submit (2)/ their reports before (3)/ the deadline on Monday. (4)

SSC CGL 21/09/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Each participant’ is a singular pronoun and we generally use ‘his’ for singular indefinite pronouns. Therefore, ‘their’ must be replaced with ‘his’. Hence, ‘his report before’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Each / every / everyone / nobody → singular verb

Neither of the applicants (1)/ have submitted (2)/ the required documents (3)/ to the office yet.(4)

SSC CGL 19/09/2025 (Shift 3)

The phrase “neither of” is always singular, so it must be followed by a singular verb. Hence, “applicants has submitted” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Neither of / Either of / Each of + singular verb

One of the guest speakers who addressed the seminar (1)/ and interacted with students (2)/ were praised widely for their clarity and enthusiasm (3)/ during the closing ceremony. (4)

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 1)

(3) ‘One + of + plural noun + singular verb’ is the correct grammatical structure. Therefore, ‘were’ should be replaced with the singular verb ‘was’. Hence, ‘was praised widely for their clarity and enthusiasm’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

One of the + plural noun + singular verb

The CEO, along with his senior advisors, (1)/ are traveling to the international conference (2)/ to announce the company's (3)/ latest technological breakthrough. (4)/

SSC CGL 22/09/2025 (Shift 1)

If paired phrases like “along with,” “together with,” or “as well as” are used, the verb agrees with the subject to which they are attached. In the given sentence, the subject “The CEO” is singular and is followed by “along with his senior advisors,” so the correct verb is “is traveling.” Hence, “is traveling” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Parenthetical phrase (along with / as well as / including)

The police has arrested the culprit.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Police’ is a plural noun, therefore a plural verb should be used with it. ‘Has’ must be replaced with the plural verb ‘have’. Hence, ‘have arrested’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Plural-form / plural-only noun (cattle, police, scissors)

Identify the part of the sentence that contains a grammatical error. His argument, shaped by historical analogies (1)/ and subtle philosophical undertones (2)/, lend support (3)/ to a broader cultural reading. (4)

Higher Secondary 29/08/2025 (Shift - 2)

According to the ‘Subject–Verb Agreement Rule’, a singular subject always takes a singular verb and a plural subject always takes a plural verb. The subject ‘argument’ is singular, so the verb must also be in the singular form. The plural verb ‘lend’ must be replaced with the singular verb ‘lends’. Hence, ‘lends support’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Singular subject → singular verb (basic agreement)

The profound implications of the burgeoning quantum theories (1)/, a field still largely inscrutable to the uninitiated, remains a contentious subject (2)/ amongst the most eminent physicists (3)/ engaging in spirited academic discourse. (4)

SSC CGL 12/09/2025 (Shift 1)

‘Remains’ must be replaced with ‘remain’. The subject of the sentence is ‘The profound implications’ (plural). The phrase ‘a field still largely inscrutable to the uninitiated’ provides additional information about ‘quantum theories’ but does not change the number of the main subject. Therefore, a plural verb is required. Hence, ‘remain a contentious subject’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

The number of vs A number of

That the experimental results contradict prior findings (1)/ and challenges established theories (2)/ suggests the need for further investigation (3)/ into the novel methodology. (4)

SSC CGL 14/09/2025 (Shift 3)

In the given sentence, the subject is a ‘that-clause’ (That the experimental results contradict prior findings and challenges established theories). There is one clause, which is considered singular. Accordingly, the given sentence uses the singular verb ‘suggests’, which is the main verb. However, ‘that-clause’ consists of a plural subject ‘results’ and two verbs ‘contradict’ and ‘challenges’. Therefore, the plural verb ‘challenge’ will be used. Hence, ‘and challenges established theories’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

There is / There are

The committee has postponed (1)/ the announcement until (2)/ further informations is received (3)/ from the regional offices. (4)

SSC CGL 16/09/2025 (Shift 1)

Some Nouns like Cattle, work, Information, Scenery, Furniture, etc. are always written in the singular form so we can't make their plural form. Hence, “further information is” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

A large number of equipments were delivered to the warehouse (1)/ last week (2)/ to support the upcoming production schedule (3)/ without any delay. (4)

SSC CGL 23/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The word “equipment” is an uncountable noun and does not have a plural form. Therefore, “equipments” is incorrect and should be “equipment.” Hence, “A large number of equipments were” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

Had the manager explained the policy clearly (1)/ to the staff members, (2)/ they would not have made (3)/ so many confusions. (4)/

SSC CGL 26/09/2025 (Shift 1)

The word “confusion” is an uncountable noun and does not have a plural form. 'Much' is used with uncountable nouns, not 'many'. Hence, “so much confusion” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

The manager distributed (1)/ many important informations (2)/ during the morning briefing, (3)/ causing some confusion. (4)

SSC CGL 26/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The word 'information' is an uncountable noun and does not have a plural form. It should be used as 'many pieces of important information'. Hence, ‘many pieces of important information’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

The information are (1) / very important (2) / and should be (3) / checked carefully. (4)

Matriculation Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘Information’ is an uncountable noun and we always use a singular verb with uncountable nouns. Therefore, ‘are’ must be replaced with ‘is’. Hence, ‘The information is’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

She gave me a good advice.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Advice’ is an uncountable noun, so we cannot use the indefinite article ‘a’ before it. Rather we use the phrase ‘a piece of’. Hence, ‘a piece of good advice’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

No less than fifty students were absent.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

“No less than” is used for uncountable nouns. But in the given sentence, “students” is a countable noun. Therefore, the correct phrase is “no fewer than.”

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

The sceneries of Ooty was wonderful.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 2)

‘Scenery’ is an uncountable noun and its plural form does not exist. Hence, ‘The scenery’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

Mr. Suman / asked me / to pack / my luggages.

‘Luggage’ is an uncountable noun, we cannot form its plural. Hence, ‘my luggage’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

I want to give you / an information about / the missing necklace.

Article ‘an’ must be removed as we do not use indefinite articles (a/an) before uncountable nouns such as information, luggage, evidence, furniture. Hence, ‘information about’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

Before he could devote many more / thought to the matter, Pranav / had stepped up to him.

‘Many more’ will be replaced with ‘much more’ as much is used to describe the quantity of an uncountable noun. The word "thought" is an uncountable noun, which means it cannot be used with ‘many’. Hence, ‘before he could devote much more’ will be the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

Mr. Abhilash and his family / have received / no informations / about the incident.

SSC CGL 09/09/2024 (1st Shift)

‘Informations’ must be replaced with ‘information’ as ‘information’ is an uncountable noun and its plural cannot be formed. Hence, 'no information' is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

As per the study, mosquito-borne / dengue fever infects little / 400 million people annually.

SSC CHSL 13/03/2023 (4th Shift)

‘Little’ is used for uncountable nouns & ‘people’ in the given sentence are countable. Therefore, ‘little’ will be removed from the sentence. Hence, ‘dengue fever infects 400 million people annually’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

When she went for a walk / Maya couldn't take off her scarf / because it was / too much windy.

SSC CGL 17/08/2021 (Evening)

We use "too much" before uncountable nouns like too much money(uncountable), too much milk, etc. However, "too many" is used before countable nouns like too many shoes(countable), too many books, etc. But, in the given sentence, ‘windy’ is not a noun it is an adjective. So, we will remove ‘much’ before ‘windy’. Hence, either ‘too windy’ or ‘too much wind(noun)’ is the most appropriate structure.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

The concept became / too much clear to me / after my tutor / showed me the diagram.

SSC CGL 23/08/2021 (Afternoon)

The use of the phrase ‘too much’ is not necessary for the sentence because it is used before uncountable nouns like too much money and ‘clear’ is not a noun. Hence, ‘became clearer to me’ is the most appropriate structure.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

I'm sorry, sir. / How many is / the fine for / returning the books late?

SSC CHSL 19/04/2021 (Evening)

‘Many’ is used for countable nouns, for example how many apples. However, ‘much’ is used for uncountable nouns for example how much money, how much rice, etc. Similarly in the given sentence, fine is uncountable. Hence, ‘how much is the fine for?’ is the most appropriate structure.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

Do you earn so much to make both ends meet?

SSC CPO 23/11/2020 (Evening)

The phrase ‘so much’ is used to mention a definite unknown quantity and ‘much’ is used with uncountable nouns. However, when we ask about someone’s earning, we usually ask how much you earn and not how ‘so much’ you earn. Hence, ‘Do you earn much’ will be the correct sentence structure.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Uncountable noun has no plural form

The meeting minutes recorded by the assistant (1)/ contains several inaccuracies (2)/ that could cause confusion (3)/ during future reviews. (4)

Higher Secondary 31/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

According to the ‘Subject-Verb Agreement Rule’, a singular subject always takes a singular verb and a plural subject always takes a plural verb. The subject of the sentence is ‘The meeting minutes’, where ‘minutes’ is a plural noun. Therefore, the verb must also be plural. The singular verb ‘contains’ must be replaced with the plural verb ‘contain’. Hence, ‘contain several inaccuracies’ is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Verb agrees with the head noun, not the nearest noun

The painting that had been stolen long ago (1) / was recovered (2) / and were displayed in the museum (3) / yesterday. (4)

Higher Secondary 24/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

According to the “Subject-Verb Agreement Rule”, a singular subject always takes a singular verb and a plural subject always takes a plural verb. In the given sentence, “The painting” is a singular subject that will take ‘was’ as a singular verb. Hence, “and was displayed in the museum” is the most appropriate answer.

Subject–Verb Agreement

Verb agrees with the real subject (singular/plural noun named)

The toast was raised in honour of the chairman yesterday at hall.

‘Hall’ given in the sentence is specific and we use the definite article ‘the’ before specific or particular nouns. Hence, ‘yesterday at the hall’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

'Ago' / past time marker → simple past

It is high time you start studying seriously.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The phrase "It is high time" is followed by the simple past tense, even when referring to a present or future action. This structure expresses that something should have already happened or should begin immediately. Therefore, "you start" should be "you started."

Tenses

'It is high time / It is time' + simple past

Had they been understanding (1)/ the financial risks involved, (2)/ they would not have (3)/ invested so aggressively. (4)

Graduate Level 31/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

The given sentence is an example of the third conditional sentence and ‘had + subject + V3 … subject + would have + V3’ is the correct grammatical structure for it. Therefore, ‘been understanding’ must be replaced with the third form ‘understood’. Hence, ‘Had they understood’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Conditional / if-clause structure

Spot the part of the sentence that contains an error. If there is no error, choose D. A. He must have been B. very busy last week C. because he is not answering his phone now. D. No error

Higher Secondary 24/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

As per the given sentence, the person is not answering his phone now but he is believed to be very busy last week. This does not seem logical. The person was busy in the past, therefore he was not answering his phone. Thus, past continuous tense (Singular Sub. + was + Ving) will be used and ‘now’ will be removed. Hence, ‘because he was not answering his phone’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Continuous tense form

It takes me an hour to get to work at the moment, but when the new road is finished it be much quicker.

Simple future tense is used to indicate an action that will happen in the future. The given sentence talks about reaching quickly in the future when the road is finished. ‘Will + V1(be)’ is the correct grammatical structure for this sentence. Hence, ‘it will be much quicker’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Future tense / will vs would

When we arrived (1) / at the station, the train (2) / already leaves (3) / for its destination (4).

Matriculation Level 31/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

If two actions took place in the past, then the first action must be in the Past Perfect tense (had + V3) and the second action must be in the Simple Past tense (V2). As per the given sentence, the train had left before we arrived. Hence, ‘had already left(V3)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Past perfect for the earlier of two past actions

Identify the error in the sentence. He has saw the movie three times already.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The sentence uses the present perfect tense ("He has..."). In the present perfect tense, the auxiliary verb "has" for the third person singular is followed by the past participle of the main verb. The past participle of "see" is "seen," not "saw." Hence, "He has seen" is the most appropriate form.

Tenses

Present perfect with since / for

The scientist explained (1)/ that the experiment (2)/ was unsuccessful because the equipment (3)/ malfunctions during the final stage. (4)

Graduate Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

The given sentence is in the simple past tense, therefore the past form of the verb will be used. ‘malfunctions’ must be replaced with ‘malfunctioned’. Hence, ‘malfunctioned during the final stage’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Sentence is in the simple past — use V2

He asked me that where I was going.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 2)

‘That’ is not used in reported speech after the verb ‘asked’. Therefore, ‘that’ must be removed. Hence, ‘asked me where’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Sequence of tenses in a subordinate clause

The professor postponed the discussion (1)/ until the research would be published (2)/ to maintain confidentiality (3)/ of the findings. (4)/

SSC CGL 15/09/2025 (Shift 1)

After “until”, we use the simple present tense to refer to a future event. Hence, “until the research is published” is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Simple present after until / when / before for a future event

The agreement (1)/ remained effective since three years (2)/ despite multiple challenges (3)/ from stakeholders. (4)

Graduate Level 29/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘Since’ is used to denote a point of time, which indicates the starting point of an action. ‘For’ is used for a fixed period of time (countable), such as 2 years, 3 months, or 4 days. In the given sentence, the phrase ‘three years’ indicates a duration, not a starting point. Therefore, ‘since’ must be replaced with ‘for’. Hence, ‘remained effective for three years’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Since = point of time, For = period of time

(A) It is sad / (B) that you / (C) are believing / (D) in superstitious rituals.

Stative verbs are those verbs which express a state or condition. They do not refer to a physical action. Sense and emotions like hear, smell, see, love, hate etc are different types of stative verbs. Verbs denoting thoughts and opinions include know, believe, think, understand, consider, etc. However, these verbs can’t be used in (-ing form) for example, Hear, Smell (Correct) and Hearing, Smelling (Incorrect). Hence, ‘you believe’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Stative verbs are not used in continuous tense

People under eighteen / do not have / the right to vote, / don’t they ?

According to the “Question Tag rule”, if the statement is positive, the question tag will be negative & vice-versa. However, the sentence and the question tag must be in the same tense. Similarly, the given sentence is negative so the question tag will be positive(do). Hence, ‘do they?’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

In August, she will be / enjoying / all the fruits her grandmother / will plant last January.

The phrase ‘last January’ indicates the use of simple past tense. ‘Will plant’ must be replaced with the past form ‘planted’. Hence, ‘planted last January’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Select the sentence that has a grammatical error.

‘The given sentence is in the simple present tense and ‘Singular Subject(He) + does + not + V1’’ is the correct grammatical structure for it. Hence, the correct sentence is- ‘He doesn’t like spicy food.’

Tenses

Tense of the verb

During winters, most of the trains are not running on time in North India.

Simple Present Tense will be used in the given sentence as it is used to state a habitual or repeated action. ‘Plural subject + do not + V1’ is the correct structure for it. Hence, ‘do not run(V1)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Identify the error in the verb form in the following sentence and choose the correct sentence from the given options (Present Tense). The committee work diligently to ensure fair and unbiased decision.

unbiased decision. The given sentence is an example of simple present tense and follows the structure, ‘Singular subject + V-s/es’. Hence, option (d) is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Children should watch TV from distance as it will affect their eyesight.

We use simple present tense to state a scientific fact. It is a scientific fact that TV affects eyesight. Therefore, ‘will’ must be removed and the singular verb ‘affects’ will be used for the singular subject ‘it’. Hence, ‘as it affects’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Luckily, I managed to get a room in the college hostel, and I move in there.

‘Move’ must be replaced with ‘moved’. The given sentence is in Past Tense, so the verb must be used in the past form(moved). Hence, ‘and I moved there’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Anant was telling a story about his most recent exploits when a tree branch break the living room window.

‘Break’ must be replaced with ‘broke’. The given sentence is in Past Tense, so the verb will be used in the past form (broke). Hence, ‘when a tree branch broke the living room window’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Throughout my career as a journalist, / I covered many important stories and / interviewed numerous individuals, which allow me / to share important information and insights with my readers.

‘Allow’ must be replaced with ‘allowed’. The given sentence is in past tense, so it must have the verb in the past form(allowed), not in the present form(allow). Hence, ‘which allowed me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Radha will have learnt cooking by the time she will have married.

‘Will have’ must be replaced with ‘will be’. Simple Present Tense(Singular Sub. + V-s/es) is used with the phrase ‘by the time’ to indicate the point of time in the future when some action will have been completed. Hence, ‘she marries’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

My teacher told me that / all that /glitters was not gold.

‘Was’ must be replaced with ‘is’ as we generally use Simple Present Tense to write proverbs or old sayings. ‘All that glitters is not gold’ is a proverb which means everything that shines is not necessarily good from inside. Hence, ‘glitters is not gold’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

(A) The twins are / (B) often told that /(C) they are resembling / (D) each other.

We generally use Simple Present Tense(Plural Sub. + V1) for generally held beliefs or opinions. Similarly, the given sentence states an opinion about twins. Hence, 'they resemble(V1)' is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

"Do you want to join us for lunch?" / "I'm sorry / my physics class will start at 1 p.m. / and doesn't finish till 3 p.m."

‘Will start’ must be replaced with ‘starts’ as we generally use simple present tense(V1-s/es) to indicate routines that happen regularly. Hence, ‘starts(V1-s)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

I am sure that / the postman would be / coming shortly / to deliver the letter.

‘Would be’ must be replaced with ‘will be’. Modal ‘would’ is used to talk about the future as seen from the past. Modal ‘will’ is used to talk about the future as seen from the present moment. As the first part of the sentence is in Present Tense, modal ‘will’ will be used. Hence, ‘the postman will be’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

The knight was received / compliments from the king / for his bravery.

SSC CPO 11/11/2022 (Morning)

The given sentence must be in the active form of the simple past tense so the verb ‘was’ must be removed to make it grammatically correct. Hence, ‘The knight received’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Every Saturday, your mother prepares a pudding, isn’t she ?

SSC CGL Tier II ( 08/08/2022 )

According to the “Question Tag rule”, if the statement is positive, the question tag will be negative & Vice-versa. However, the sentence and the question tag must be in the same tense. The given sentence is in simple present tense. So the same tense will be used for the question tag. The given sentence is positive so the question tag will be negative (doesn’t). Hence, ‘doesn’t she’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

We usually sleep in bedrooms with the door firmly shuted behind us.

SSC MTS 13/07/2022 (Afternoon)

The given sentence is in the simple present tense so the verb must be used in the simple present form(V1). Hence, ‘firmly shut(V1)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

The following sentence contains a grammatical error. Select the option that correctly rectifies the error. In its August 1992 issue, the highly respected British Journal of Addiction describe three unusual cases of carrot dependence.

SSC CHSL 31/05/2022 (Evening)

British Journal of Addiction described three unusual cases of carrot dependence. (Correct) (a) In its August 1992 issue, the highly respected British Journal of Addiction was describing three unusual cases of carrot dependence. (Incorrect Tense) (b) In its August 1992 issue, the highly respected British Journal of Addiction describing three unusual cases of carrot dependence. (Incorrect Verb) (d) In its August 1992 issue, the highly respeced British Journal of Addiction has been described three British Journal of Addiction has been described three. (Incorrect Tense)

Tenses

Tense of the verb

The following sentence contains a grammatical error. Select the option that correctly rectifies the error. He sees us coming, and unaware that we had learned of his treachery, greeted us with a smile

SSC CHSL 01/06/2022 (Morning)

learned of his treachery, greeted us with a smile. (Correct) (a) He saw us coming, and unaware that we learned of his treachery, greeted us with a Smile. (Incorrect Tense) (c) He saw us coming, and unaware that we were learning of his treachery, greeted us with a smile. (Incorrect Tense) (d) He saw us come, and unaware that we had learned of his treachery, greets us with a Smile. (Incorrect Verb)

Tenses

Tense of the verb

The balloon flew up / as soon as / the man cutting the string.

SSC CGL 23/08/2021 (Evening)

The given sentence is in the past tense(flew) so the verb must be used in its simple past form(cut) and not in the present continuous form(cutting). Hence, ‘the man cut the string ’ is the most appropriate structure.

Tenses

Tense of the verb

Identify the error in the sentence. She usually is forgetting her keys at home.

Higher Secondary 31/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

The word ‘usually’ indicates a habitual action, so the verb should be in the simple present tense. Therefore, ‘is forgetting’ should be replaced with ‘forgets’. Hence, ‘forgets’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

Universal truth / habitual action → simple present

By the time the committee (1)/ reviews the proposal, (2)/ the final draft (3)/ will be sent to all members. (4)

Graduate Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

When the phrase ‘By the time’ is used with simple present tense, future perfect tense is used in the 2nd clause. In the second clause, ‘the final draft’ is the subject, which receives the action rather than performs it. Therefore, passive voice structure will be used. ‘Will have been + V3’ is the correct passive structure for future perfect tense. Hence, ‘will have been sent’ is the most appropriate answer.

Tenses

V2 vs V3 (past vs past participle)

They want to live in first floor of this building.

‘Live in first floor’ must be replaced with ‘live on the first floor’. Definite article ‘the’ is used before a superlative degree adjective. ‘First’ is a superlative adjective. ‘On’ is used to indicate the surface on which something rests. ‘Floor’ is the bottom surface of a room. Hence, ‘live on the first floor’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

'The' before a superlative degree

Ramayana is an ancient Sanskrit epic; it is believed to be written around 500 BC to 100 BC.

The definite article 'the' is used before holy books. For example:The Ramayana, The Mahabharata, The Quran, The Bible, etc. Hence, 'The Ramayana is an ancient' is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

'The' before holy books, rivers, oceans, mountain ranges, newspapers

They gave me (1) / a furniture (2) / that matched perfectly (3) / with the room. (4)

Matriculation Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘Furniture’ is uncountable, so it cannot take the indefinite article ‘a.’ Rather, we use words like ‘some’ or ‘a piece of’. Hence, ‘some furniture’ or ‘a piece of furniture’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

'The' for a specific / already-mentioned thing

Select the sentence with correct use of article 'the.'

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 1)

Generally, we do not use any article before proper nouns. However, when we compare a person or place to another person/place that is renowned for its greatness, we use the definite article before them. Similarly, Shakespeare is a renowned poet and the given sentence compares Kalidas with Shakespeare. Therefore, the article ‘the’ is used before ‘shakespeare’.

Articles

'The' is not used before proper nouns / languages / meals

The victim went (1)/ to the police station (2)/ to lodge (3)/ a FIR. (4)

Matriculation Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The article ‘an’ is used before the words starting with a vowel sound. Similarly, in the given sentence, the word ‘FIR’ starts with a vowel sound. Hence, ‘to lodge an FIR’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

A vs An — consonant sound takes 'a'

Identify the error in the sentence. She adopted a honest approach to resolving the issue.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The article ‘an’ is used before words that begin with a vowel sound. In the given sentence, the word ‘honest’ starts with a vowel sound, so the article ‘an’ will be used before it. Hence, ‘adopted an honest approach’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

A vs An — silent h (an hour, an honest man)

Which among the following sentences uses the article (if required) before the word 'honour' correctly ?

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The word “honour” begins with a vowel sound, so it requires the article “an.” Hence, option (b) is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

A vs An — sound, not spelling, decides

Identify the error in the sentence. He attended an unique workshop on digital marketing.

Higher Secondary 02/08/2025 (Shift - 2)

The article ‘an’ is used before vowel sounds, while ‘a’ is used before consonant sounds. The word ‘unique’ begins with a consonant sound. Therefore, ‘an’ must be replaced with ‘a’. Hence, ‘a unique workshop’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

A vs An — u said as /yu/ takes 'a'

She has been (1)/ working as (2)/ a officer in this (3)/ department for years. (4)

Matriculation Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The article ‘an’ is used before the words starting with a vowel sound. Similarly, in the given sentence, the word ‘officer’ starts with a vowel sound. Hence, ‘an officer in this’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

A vs An — vowel sound takes 'an'

The company plans to hire (1)/ new group of interns (2)/ to assist with the upcoming (3)/ marketing campaign this summer. (4)/

SSC CGL 20/09/2025 (Shift 3)

In the given sentence, the noun “group” is singular and countable, so it requires the article “a” before it. Hence, “a new group of interns” is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

Article a / an with a countable singular noun

The following sentence has been divided into four segments. Identify the segment in which the article has been used INCORRECTLY. UNESCO works to / strengthen an intellectual / and moral solidarity / of humankind.

Indefinite article ‘a/an’ is not used for an abstract noun(solidarity). The definite article ‘the’ is used before a specific or particular noun. The given sentence is referring to a specific type of solidarity. Hence, ‘strengthen the intellectual and moral solidarity’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

Article before an uncountable / abstract noun

Select the grammatically correct sentence.

boy haunted her for years.(Correct) (b) An simple mistake which was committed by the boy haunted her for years.(Incorrect Article) (c) The simple mistake which was committed by an boy haunted her for years.(Incorrect Article) (d) A simple mistake which was committed by an boy haunted her for years.(Incorrect Article)

Articles

Article usage

They will start their journey after the breakfast.

‘The’ must be removed before ‘breakfast’ as we generally do not use any article before the names of meals(breakfast, dinner, lunch, etc). Hence, ‘after breakfast’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

Article usage

Select the grammatically correct statement from among the given options. A. It is a nice party. I am enjoying the party. B. It is a party. I am enjoying an party. C. It is party. I am enjoying a party. D. It is the party. I am enjoying an party.

(a) D. It is the party. I am enjoying an party. (Incorrect Article) (b) C. It is party. I am enjoying a party. (Incorrect Article) (c) B. It is a party. I am enjoying an party. (Incorrect Article)

Articles

Article usage

Select the grammatically correct sentence. A. I would like to spend an evening near pool with a cup of coffee. B. I would like to spend an evening near pool with cup of coffee. C. I would like to spend a evening near a pool with a cup of coffee. D. I would like to spend an evening near a pool with a cup of coffee

cup of coffee. (a) I would like to spend a evening near a pool with a cup of coffee. (Incorrect article) (c) I would like to spend an evening near pool with cup of coffee. (Article missing) (d) I would like to spend an evening near pool with a cup of coffee. (Article missing)

Articles

Article usage

My aunt came from Switzerland by the flight which was landing at 5:00 a.m. yesterday.

We generally do not use article ‘the’ after ‘by’ when we mention the means of transport such as bus, train, bike, car, flight, etc. Therefore, article ‘the’ will be removed. Hence, ‘Switzerland by’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

No 'the' after 'by' with means of transport

My students are / waiting for / their flights / at the gate no. 6.

Use of definite article ‘the’ is incorrect. We generally do not use definite article ‘the’ when referring to specific numbered gates, rooms or sections. Hence ‘at gate no. 6’ is the most appropriate answer.

Articles

No 'the' before numbered gates / rooms / pages

He divided the sweets between his five friends.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Between’ is replaced by ‘among’ because ‘among’ is used when referring to more than two people, while ‘between’ is used for two entities only. In the given sentence, the sweets are divided among five friends. Hence, ‘sweets among his five friends’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Between (two) vs Among (more than two)

Among you and me / she is quite rude / to the boy.

SSC CGL 21/04/2022 (Afternoon)

We use ‘among’ for more than two persons and ‘between’ for two persons. However, there are two persons mentioned in the given sentence. Hence, ‘Between you and me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Between (two) vs Among (more than two)

This dog seems / to be very ferocious, / otherwise, / it is harmless.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

‘Otherwise‘ is a conjunction that means apart from that. However, ‘But’ is also a conjunction that is used for introducing an idea that contrasts with or is different from what has just been said. Similarly in the given sentence, the statement that the dog is harmless contrasts with its characteristic of being ferocious(violent). Hence, ‘But’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Different FROM

The city turned out / to be very / different to what / he had expected.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘to’ after ‘different’ must be replaced with ‘from’ because ‘different’ generally takes the preposition ‘from’ with it. Hence, ‘different from what’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Different FROM

The man we met was any other than the original owner of the house.

SSC MTS 14/10/2021 (Afternoon)

The phrase ‘any other’ will be replaced with ‘different’ which means not the same person. Hence, ‘was different than’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Different FROM

The committee is committed (1)/ for ensuring that all members (2)/ have an equal opportunity (3)/ to voice their opinions. (4)/

SSC CGL 17/09/2025 (Shift 3)

‘To’ is a fixed preposition used after the adjective ‘committed’ to indicate purpose or dedication. Hence, “committed to ensuring” is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

The cybersecurity team is proficient for detecting (1)/ vulnerabilities in legacy systems that often evade (2)/ conventional monitoring tools and protocols (3)/ during routine audits. (4)/

SSC CGL 23/09/2025 (Shift 3)

‘In’ is a fixed preposition used after the adjective ‘proficient’ to indicate skill in doing something. The given sentence uses “proficient for detecting”, which is incorrect. Hence, “proficient in detecting” is the most appropriate correction.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

During the heated press (1) / conference, the mayor steadfastly (2) / refused to comment (3) / in the unfolding scandal.(4)

Matriculation Level 29/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘On’ is a fixed preposition used with the verb ‘comment’. Hence, ‘comment on the unfolding scandal’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

She congratulated him for his success.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

“On” is the fixed preposition used with the verb “congratulate” to indicate the achievement someone is being congratulated for. Therefore, “him on” is the correct form.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

My elder sister is married with a doctor.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

‘To’ is a fixed preposition used with the verb ‘marry.’ Therefore, ‘is married to’ is the correct form.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

I prefer tea than coffee.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 2)

‘To’ is a fixed preposition used after the verb ‘prefer’. Hence, ‘tea to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

Identify the error in the following sentence. The police are searching about the missing jewellery.

‘For’ is the fixed preposition used after the verb ‘search’. Hence, ‘for’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

My sister is allergic with peanuts, so be cautious when preparing her meal

‘To’ is the fixed preposition used after the adjective ‘allergic’. Hence, ‘allergic to peanuts’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

Identify the INCORRECT section of the given sentence. Four people / were / witnesses of / that event.

The preposition ‘to’ is used after the nouns ‘witness’ or ‘testimony’. And the correct structure is ‘witness/testimony to an event’. Hence, ‘witnesses to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

The new software / consists from /several features / and tools.

‘Of’ is a fixed preposition used after the verb ‘consist’. Hence, ‘consists of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

Identify the error in the use of preposition in the given sentence and select the correct option. Radhika is not capable on participating in a national level competition.

Use of ‘on’ after the word ‘capable’ is incorrect. ‘On’ must be replaced with ‘of’ as ‘of’ is a fixed preposition used after the word ‘capable’ to denote capability. Hence, ‘of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Fixed preposition after a particular verb/adjective

Identify the incorrect part. He prevented me from get lost when we drove back from the airport.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 1)

We generally use a gerund(Ving) after a preposition(‘from’ in the given sentence). Therefore, ‘get’ will be replaced with ‘getting’. Hence, “getting lost when we drove back” is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Gerund (V-ing) after a preposition

He succeeded to win the prize.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb ‘succeed’ is always followed by the preposition ‘in’. We generally use a gerund(Ving) after any preposition. Hence, ‘in winning(Ving)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Gerund (V-ing) after a preposition

She prevented me to enter the hall.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘From’ is a fixed preposition used after the verb ‘prevent / prohibit / refrain / abstain’. We generally use a gerund(Ving) after any preposition. Hence, “me from entering(Ving)” is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Gerund (V-ing) after a preposition

Why don't / you throw this / paper on the dust bin?

‘On’ must be replaced with ‘in’. ‘In’ is used to indicate the location or position of something inside of something else. Preposition ‘On’ is used to indicate that something is touching the surface of something. Hence, ‘in’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

They decided to / travel in train / instead of driving / to New Delhi.

Preposition ‘in’ must be replaced with ‘by’ as preposition ‘by’ is used with the means or method of transportation. For exampleby train, by bus, by car, etc. Hence, ‘travel by train’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

He / lives / in 45 Church Street / with his family.

‘In’ must be replaced with ‘at’ as we generally use the preposition ‘at’ for smaller or specific locations. Hence, ‘at 45 Church Street’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Identify the error in the use of preposition in the given sentence and select the correct option. Her family lost their way on Daman.

The preposition ‘on’ must be replaced with ‘in’ as ‘In’ is used to indicate location or position within a place or area. Similarly, in the sentence, ‘Daman’ is a location and we need to use the preposition ‘in’ before it. Hence, ‘in’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

You can find these / books into the extreme / corner of this shelf.

‘Into’ will be replaced with ‘in’ as the preposition ‘in’ indicates the location of the books. Hence, ‘books in the extreme’ will be the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Tax dispute settlement / might not work out in / the desired scale.

Preposition ‘In’ must be replaced with ‘on’ as we generally use ‘on’ to discuss the success or outcome of a particular activity or process. Hence, ‘might not work out in’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

There are three cupholders placed on the cupboards of the secretariat table.

SSC CGL 03/12/2022 (2nd Shift)

cupboards of the secretariat table. There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘on’ must be replaced with ‘in’. Hence, ‘in the cupboards’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

The jury was not happy with the performance / and was quite harsh. / The singer took / their criticism in heart.

SSC CGL 05/12/2022 (1st Shift)

“Take something to heart” is an idiom that means to get upset with something. The given sentence states that the singer got upset with the decision of Jury. Hence, the preposition ‘in’ must be replaced with ‘to’ to make the given sentence grammatically correct.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Sometimes I act / like a fool, and she has / to step into save me.

SSC MTS 05/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘into’ must be replaced with ‘in’ because ‘step in’ is the correct phrase which means to help somebody in a difficult situation like she helps the narrator in the given sentence. Hence, ‘she has to step in to save me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Most of the carbon-trapping mechanisms/ that we have identified are/based at limit studies.

SSC MTS 21/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘at’ must be replaced with ‘on’. Hence, ‘based on limited studies’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Surgical strike is not the only solution to this problem standing at front of us.

SSC MTS 25/07/2022 (Afternoon)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘at’ must be replaced with ‘in’. Hence, ‘standing in front of us’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Investing on real estate / can earn you quick profit / but it comes with / a certain amount of risk attached to it.

SSC CHSL 07/06/2022 (Afternoon)

The preposition “on” will be replaced by “in”. Invest in is a phrasal verb which means to put money, effort, time, etc. into something to make a profit or get an advantage. Hence, ‘investing in real estate’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Obi wanted / to continue on / his idea of / building a modern school.

SSC MTS 06/10/2021 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. Use the preposition ‘on’ in place of ‘with’. Hence, ‘to continue with’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

We don't really / want a large house; / we are looking for some comfort / and some convenience on a moderate price.

SSC CGL 18/08/2021 (Morning)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘on’ will be replaced with ‘at’ because we generally buy something at a low/high price, not on a low/high price. Hence, ‘some convenience at a moderate price’ is the most appropriate structure.

Prepositions

In / on / at — place

Identify the word in this sentence that contains an error. She submitted her application to Wednesday afternoon.

Higher Secondary 02/08/2025 (Shift - 2)

We use the preposition ‘on’ when referring to days or specific times. Therefore, ‘to’ must be replaced with ‘on’. Hence, ‘on’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

In / on / at — time

So profound was the impact (1)/ of the new policy that it not only changed recruitment standards (2)/ but also reduced with overall efficiency (3)/ across departments. (4)

SSC CGL 19/09/2025 (Shift 1)

The verb “reduce” is a transitive verb, meaning it directly takes an object without needing a preposition. Hence, “reduced overall efficiency” is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

My neighbor constantly complains for the noise coming from the children playing in the park.

SSC CGL 22/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb 'complain' is typically followed by the preposition 'about' or 'of' when stating the reason for the complaint, not 'for'. Hence, ‘complains about the noise’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The coordinator carefully explained about the revised procedures (1)/ to all the participants during the orientation session (2)/ so that everyone could follow the updated guidelines (3)/ without any confusion or delay. (4)

SSC CGL 25/09/2025 (Shift 3)

revised procedures Verbs like “explain, mention, discuss, emphasise, enter, accompany, etc,” do not take any preposition when used with an object. Therefore, ‘about’ must be removed. Hence, “The coordinator carefully explained the revised procedures” is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The suspect was charged (1)/ of murder after (2)/ the police found (3)/ the weapon in his car. (4)

Matriculation Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The verb "charged" is followed by the preposition "with" when we talk about accusing someone of a crime. Hence, ‘charged with murder’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The document was replete by errors (1)/ despite several rounds (2)/ of proofreading (3)/ by the editorial team. (4)

Graduate Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘With’ is the correct preposition to use here instead of ‘by’. The expression ‘replete with’ means full of or filled with something. In the given sentence, the document is described as being full of errors. Hence, ‘The document was replete with errors’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Identify the word in this sentence that contains an error. The keys are inside the table drawer.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

In the given sentence, the word “inside” is incorrect because the correct preposition should be “in”. We usually say “in the drawer”, not “inside the drawer” when referring to location in everyday English.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Identify the word in this sentence that contains an error. She arrived to the office early this morning.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb "arrive" is not followed by "to". The correct preposition is "at" for a specific place. Hence, ‘arrive at’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

She is angry upon me.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The correct preposition to use with “angry” when referring to someone is “with”, not “upon.” Therefore, the correct sentence is “She is angry with me”.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

She delivered a speech in the prize distribution function.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The correct preposition here is ‘at’, which is used to refer to a specific event or occasion. In the given sentence, the prize distribution function is an event. Hence, ‘at the prize distribution function.’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

This book comprises of five chapters.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb ‘comprises’ does not take the preposition ‘of’. Therefore, ‘of’ must be removed. Hence, ‘comprises five chapters’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The child is afraid from the dark.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 3)

The correct preposition after the adjective “afraid” is “of.” Hence, ‘afraid of the dark’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct ?

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The correct preposition to use with modes of transport like “train” is “on.” Hence, option (d) is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The old man fell down from the stairs.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The correct preposition to use when someone falls from a higher level, such as stairs, is typically “down the stairs” or “off the stairs.” The old man fell down the stairs, not “fell down from the stairs.” The word “from” is unnecessary here. Therefore, the correct form is “fell down the stairs.”

Prepositions

Preposition choice

She resembles with her mother.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb ‘resemble’ means to have some kind of similarities. However, we do not use the preposition ‘with’ after the verb ‘resemble’. Therefore, ‘with’ must be removed. Hence, ‘resembles her mother’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

She married with a doctor.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 2)

We do not use the preposition ‘with / to’ after the verb ‘married’ active voice. Therefore, ‘with’ must be removed. Hence, ‘married a doctor’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains an INCORRECT preposition. Please remember to take / your notice to the reception area / if you want it to be displayed / upon the bulletin board.

There is a prepositional error in the sentence . ‘Upon’ must be replaced with ‘On’ . We use ‘on’ when an object is in contact with the surface of something. Similarly, the notice will be in contact with the bulletin board. Hence ‘on the bulletin board’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains an INCORRECT preposition. I am writing to invite you / to give a presentation / for our Jobs and Careers Conference / for engineering graduates.

Preposition ‘at’ is used to indicate a specific occasion or event. Similarly, in the given sentence, ‘Jobs and Careers Conference’ is a specific event. Hence, ‘at our jobs and careers conference’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

In geography class,/ the teacher told the students, / "Switzerland lies / inside Germany, France, Austria, and Italy."

There is a preposition error in this sentence. ‘Between’ is used for geographical location. The given sentence talks about the geographical location of Switzerland. Hence, ‘between Germany, France, Austria, and Italy’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Guard over / making mistakes / by carefully checking / the assigned task.

‘Guard over’ must be replaced with ‘guard against’ as the verb ‘guard’ is followed by the preposition ‘against’ when it means to protect something from harm or damage. Hence, ‘guard against’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

This scripture / has been /translated in / seventy languages.

‘In’ must be replaced with ‘Into’. Preposition ‘into’ is used to indicate a change from one form or state to another. Similarly, the given sentence talks about the change in scripture from one language to another. Hence, ‘translated into’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Parts of the following sentence have been underlined and given as options. Select the option that contains an error. What most off us want most is to move forward.

‘Off’ must be replaced with ‘of’ as ‘Off’ is usually used as a preposition to indicate separation (going away from something) or disconnection. Preposition ‘Of’ is used to indicate something being part of something. Therefore, ‘most of’ is the most appropriate answer. eduquity-based pattern (ebp) Questions (552 to 633)

Prepositions

Preposition choice

By virtue off / the power given to the leader / the followers accepted his decision

‘By virtue of’ is the correct preposition and it is used to provide reason. Hence, ‘by virtue of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

I caught / a white cat / rustling / beneath my room.

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition 'beneath' must be replaced with 'in' as ‘beneath’ is used to indicate a location that is below something and ‘in’ is used to indicate that something is located inside of something else. Hence, 'in my room' is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Kids learn / a lot by / their / school activities and homework

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. ‘A lot by’ must be replaced with ‘a lot from’ as the preposition ‘by’ is generally used to indicate the way something is done and the preposition ‘from’ is used to indicate the source of gaining knowledge. Hence, ‘a lot from’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The front part is used for carving / the lines and the back end / for scratching of whole areas.

Preposition ‘of’ will be removed as scratch is a transitive verb and it will not use any preposition with it. The will be used before “whole”. Hence, ‘For scratching the whole areas’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Shapes that are impossible / to make of machining / can be printed.

The preposition ‘of’ must be replaced with ‘by’ in the given sentence. The use of the preposition ‘by’ is correct because it is indicating the method by which the shapes are made. While the preposition ‘of’ is used to indicate a part of something. Hence, ‘to make by matching’ will be the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Can you please / help me to / this project?

‘Help me to’ will be replaced with ‘help me with’ as the verb "help" is typically followed by the preposition "with" when indicating assistance or support in accomplishing a task or project. Hence, ‘Help me with’ will be the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Deepa and Seema are both good with running, but Deepa is also good at catching the ball and throwing it to the right corner in time.

SSC CGL 18/09/2024 (1st Shift)

Preposition ‘at’ is used to show that someone is good at doing something. ‘Good + at + Ving’ is the correct structure. Hence, ‘good at running’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

You never know when / you are going to stumble to a / jewel in the most unexpected corner.

SSC CHSL 14/03/2023 (3rd Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘to’ will be replaced with ‘upon’ because we generally use the preposition ‘upon’ with ‘stumble’. Hence, ‘you are going to stumble upon a’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Give yourself a / chance to be distracted / of bad news.

SSC CHSL 15/03/2023 (4th Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘of’ must be replaced with ‘by’. Hence, ‘distracted by bad news’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

If someone you are talking / to is open of learning more, / encourage that continued curiosity.

SSC CHSL 16/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘of’ must be replaced with ‘to’. Hence, ‘open to learning more’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

You will never / regret this wonderful / experience with your life.

SSC CHSL 17/03/2023 (4th Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘with’ must be replaced with ‘in’. Hence, ‘experience in your life’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Dan needed help / to get the / tight coat of him.

SSC CGL Tier II (03/03/2023)

The preposition ‘off’ is used with verbs that mean ‘remove’ or ‘separate’. The given sentence states that Dan needed help to remove the tight coat. Therefore, ‘of’ will be replaced with ‘off’. Hence, ‘tight coat off him’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Daniel sat on / his new bike / and went afar / a ride.

SSC CGL Tier II (07/03/2023)

We will replace the adverb ‘afar’ with the preposition ‘for’ to grammatically correct the given sentence. Hence, ‘went for a ride’ is the most appropriate answer. SSC CGL 2022 Tier - 1

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Select the option that contains a grammatical error in the underlined portion I have never played any game of side this track during the season.

SSC CGL 03/12/2022 (1st Shift)

during the season. “Off-side” is used about a player in football in a position that is not allowed by the rules of the game. The sentence in option ‘b’ has the preposition ‘of’ in place of ‘off’ so it must be removed to make the sentence grammatically correct.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

There is a whole world / out there that / is invisible from / the naked eye.

SSC CGL 03/12/2022 (1st Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘from’ must be replaced with ‘to’. Hence, ‘is invisible to the naked eye’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Amla juice / is rich with / Vitamin C. / no error

SSC CGL 03/12/2022 (4th Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘with’ must be replaced with ‘in’ because ‘rich in something’ is the correct phrase. Hence, ‘rich in Vitamin C’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

I am having trouble / deciding in / a gift for them. / no error

SSC CGL 06/12/2022 (4th Shift)

“Preposition(in) + V-ing” is the correct grammatical structure for the given sentence. Hence, ‘in deciding(V-ing)’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

She has / a habit of / spending against / her means.

SSC CGL 08/12/2022 (1st Shift)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘against’ must be replaced with ‘beyond’ because ‘to live beyond your means’ is the correct phrase that means to spend more than the earning. Hence, ‘spending beyond her means’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Fortunately, he passed the exams / with dint of sheer hard work and diligence.

SSC CPO 11/11/2022 (Morning)

‘By dint of’ is the correct phrase that means by means of something. Similarly, the given sentence states that he passed the exams by means of hard work. Hence, the preposition ‘with’ must be replaced with ‘by’ & ‘by dint of’ becomes the most appropriate answer. SSC CGL 2021 Tier - 2

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The reduced air pressure on airline flights can lessen the amount of oxygen in passengers' blood for twenty-five percent.

SSC MTS 05/07/2022 (Morning)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘for’ must be replaced with ‘to’ because we generally use the preposition ‘to’ after the verb ‘lessen’. Hence, ‘lessen the amount of oxygen in passengers' blood to twenty-five percent’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Concern above rising pollution / led to the / formulation of / various action plans.

SSC MTS 06/07/2022 (Afternoon)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘above’ must be replaced with ‘about’ because the verb ‘concern’ generally takes the preposition ‘about’. Hence, ‘Concern about rising pollution’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Elizabeth beat her rival with the gold medal in the 2021 summer Olympics.

SSC MTS 12/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘with’ must be replaced with ‘for’. Hence, ‘for the gold medal’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

India has joined / the global fight / among tax evasion.

SSC MTS 12/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘among’ must be replaced with ‘against’ because we generally use the preposition ‘against’ after the verb ‘fight’. Hence, ‘against tax evasion’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The panel will / investigate the allegations / owing to the concerned officials.

SSC MTS 14/07/2022 (Evening)

The phrase ‘owing to’ must be replaced with ‘against’ because we generally use the preposition ‘against’ after the noun ‘allegation’. Hence, ‘allegations against the concerned officials’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Sometimes we interact to people who are closed-minded and not willing to listen.

SSC MTS 15/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘to’ must be replaced with ‘with’ because we generally use the preposition ‘with’ with the verb ‘interact’. Hence, ‘interact with people who are closed-minded’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Most of the families in / my research rely at phone calls / for almost all of their communication.

SSC MTS 19/07/2022 (Morning)

We generally use the preposition ‘on’ after the verb ‘rely’ and not ‘at’. Hence, ‘my research rely on phone calls’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Mylar balloons cause power outages when they come of contact with power lines.

SSC MTS 20/07/2022 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘of’ must be replaced with ‘in’. Hence, ‘when they come in contact’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Whenever he is / on a holiday, / he travels by foot / to the temple nearby.

SSC CHSL 30/05/2022 (Morning)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘by’ must be replaced with ‘on’ because whenever we go somewhere using our foot we use the preposition ‘on’ before ‘foot’. Hence, ‘he travels on foot’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

As she kept walking to me, my heart skipped a beat .

SSC CHSL 09/06/2022 (Morning)

a beat. (Correct) (a) As she kept walking within me, my heart skipped a beat. (Incorrect preposition) (b) As she kept walking from me, my heart skipped a beat.(Incorrect preposition) (c) As she kept into me, my heart skipped a beat.(Incorrect preposition)

Prepositions

Preposition choice

You should / avail this opportunity / to demonstrate / your skills.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

‘Avail’ always takes the preposition ‘of’ and a reflexive pronoun(myself, yourself, ourselves, etc.) in accordance with the given subject(You). Hence, ‘avail yourself of this opportunity’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

He often / persists to ask / awkward questions / at the board meetings.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

“Persist + in + V-ing” is the correct grammatical structure for the given sentence. Hence, the preposition ‘to’ must be replaced with the preposition ‘in’ and ‘persists in asking(V-ing)’ becomes the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

His father / prevented him / to go abroad / for higher studies.

SSC CGL Tier II (03/02/2022)

We generally use the preposition ‘from’ with prevent not ‘to’. Hence, we will replace ‘to’ with ‘from’ and ‘from going abroad’ becomes the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Will you / listen me / when I tell you / the details?

SSC MTS 05/10/2021 (Afternoon)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘to’ is missing after ‘listen’. Hence, ‘listen to me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Mithila art tradition is passed on / from one generation through a next / by children watching and helping / their mothers and grandmothers.

SSC CGL 24/08/2021 (Evening)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘through’ must be replaced with ‘to’. Hence, ‘from one generation to the next’ is the most appropriate structure. SSC CHSL 2020 Tier - 1

Prepositions

Preposition choice

Most hotels / offer for their guests / complimentary breakfast / during their stay there.

SSC CHSL 16/04/2021 (Afternoon)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The use of ‘for’ after ‘offer’ is irrelevant so it should be removed. Hence, ‘most hotels offer their guests complimentary breakfast’ is the most appropriate structure.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

You need to sign / these important documents / by ink.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

There is a prepositional error in the given sentence. The preposition ‘by’ must be replaced with ‘in’ because we generally write ‘in ink’ for example fill the form in blue ink, sign the cheque in ink, etc. Similarly, in the given sentence, the documents need to be signed in ink. Hence, ‘in ink’ is the most appropriate structure.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

He is / afraid from / all insects / that crawl.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

Afraid generally takes the preposition ‘of’ and not ‘from’. Hence, ‘afraid of’ is the most appropriate structure.

Prepositions

Preposition choice

The technician (1) / will look down (2) / the issue to find out (3) / what went wrong.(4)

Matriculation Level 31/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘Look down’ means to consider someone inferior and less worthy of respect. ‘Look into’ means to examine the facts about a problem or situation. The given sentence talks about examining the issue. Hence, ‘will look into’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Superior / inferior / senior / junior / prior + TO

He was senior than me in college.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 1)

There are some words that imply comparison but do not take ‘than’. Rather, ‘to’ is used with them. For example:- superior to, inferior to, prior to, senior to, junior to, elder to, etc. Hence, ‘senior to me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Superior / inferior / senior / junior / prior + TO

She is junior than me.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The word "junior" is followed by the preposition "to," not "than," when making a comparison. The correct phrase should be "junior to me."

Prepositions

Superior / inferior / senior / junior / prior + TO

He always wants to be in the company of those who are intellectually superior than him.

There are some words that imply comparison but do not take ‘than’. Rather, ‘to’ is used with them. For example:- superior to, inferior to, prior to, senior to, junior to, elder to, etc. Hence, ‘superior to him’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Superior / inferior / senior / junior / prior + TO

Ram ran back to the / window to see the bars dangling / a few feet before the ground.

SSC MTS 19/05/2023 (Evening)

The preposition ‘before’ is used to indicate a position in front of or prior to something. However, when describing the vertical distance between the bars and the ground, the correct preposition to use is ‘above.’ Hence, ‘a few feet above the ground’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Superior / inferior / senior / junior / prior + TO

After years of hard work (1)/ he finally decided to call off from (2)/ his struggling business and start anew (3)/ in a different field. (4)/

SSC CGL 18/09/2025 (Shift 1)

he finally decided to call off from The phrasal verb ‘call off’ does not take any preposition after it. ‘Call off’ means to cancel or abandon. Therefore, ‘from’ must be removed. Hence, ‘he finally decided to call off’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Transitive verbs that take no preposition (discuss, enter, marry, reach)

I, you and she/ have been working happily/ in the same company and in the same branch/ for the last nine years.

If two or more singular pronouns are used together, the correct order is 231 according to the person they denote. Therefore, the correct order for the given sentence is You(2nd person), she(3rd person) and I(1st person). Hence, ‘You, she and I’ is the most appropriate answer.

Prepositions

Transitive verbs that take no preposition (discuss, enter, marry, reach)

He is as concerned as me / regarding / the renewed / examination schedule.

Pronoun ‘Me’ must be replaced with ‘I’ as the conjunction pair “as….as” is used to do comparison between the same ‘Cases of pronoun’. So we need to use the subjective case of pronoun i.e. ‘I’. Hence, ‘He is as concerned as I’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

As … as / not so … as

The venerable institution aims to both preserve ancient texts (1)/ and promoting critical scholarship (2)/ among its burgeoning community (3)/ of young researchers. (4)

SSC CGL 13/09/2025 (Shift 1)

‘Both … and’ is a fixed conjunction pair and the same part of speech should be used after each. Therefore, ‘promoting’ must be replaced with ‘promote’ to match the form of the verb ‘preserve’. Hence, ‘and promote critical scholarship’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Both … and

Her presentation displayed (1)/ strong arguments (2)/ yet it missed (3)/ structure and coherent. (4)

Graduate Level 02/08/2025 (Shift - 3)

The conjunction ‘and’ is used to join two similar parts of speech. In the given sentence, ‘structure and coherent’ functions as the object of the verb ‘missed’, and the object must be a noun. ‘Structure’ is already a noun, so we need to replace the adjective ‘coherent’ with its noun form ‘coherence’ to maintain parallelism. Hence, ‘structure and coherence’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Conjunction choice (and/or/but/while)

She was confident that her plan would succeed, (1)/ for it was not only innovative (2)/ but also it was thoroughly tested (3)/ by an independent team. (4)

SSC CGL 13/09/2025 (Shift 2)

also’ is a fixed conjunction pair and the same part of speech is used after them. As there is an adjective after ‘not only’,, we need to use an adjective after ‘but also’. Therefore, ‘it was’ must be removed. Hence, ‘but also thoroughly tested’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Fixed conjunction pair

Hard had she /thrown the basketball /when it fell /on the ground.

‘Hardly…when’ is a fixed pair of conjunctions. Hence, ‘Hardly had she’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Hardly / Scarcely / Barely … when

Hold my hand lest you should not get lost in the huge crowd at the fair.

‘Lest’ is used without ‘not’. Hence, ‘lest you should’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Lest … should

Identify the part of the sentence that contains a grammatical error. Neither the project manager (1)/ nor the team leads (2)/ was available (3)/ for the discussion. (4)

Higher Secondary 29/08/2025 (Shift - 2)

“Neither…nor / Either…or” is a correlative conjunction pair used for two subjects, and the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. This is known as the rule of proximity. In this sentence, the subject nearest to the verb is ‘the team leads,’ which is plural. So, the verb must be plural as well. Therefore, ‘was available’ should be replaced with ‘were available.’ Hence, ‘were available’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Neither … nor

No sooner he had arrived than the meeting started.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

After “No sooner,” the sentence must use inversion, meaning the auxiliary verb comes before the subject. Therefore, “had he arrived” is the correct form.

Conjunctions

No sooner … than

The manager appreciated (1)/ not only her dedication (2)/ but also for her innovative ideas. (3)/ Everyone was motivated by her example. (4)/

SSC CGL 22/09/2025 (Shift 3)

When using "not only ... but also", the structure should be parallel. In the given sentence, "her dedication" is a noun phrase, so "her innovative ideas" should also be a noun phrase. Therefore, "her innovative ideas" is the most appropriate correction.

Conjunctions

Not only … but also

He was / that angry / that he slammed the book / on the table.

‘That angry’ must be replaced with ‘so angry’ as ‘so…that’ is a fixed conjunction pair. Hence, ‘so angry’ is the most appropriate answer.

Conjunctions

Such … that / So … that

You cannot lead a healthy life although you stop smoking.

SSC CPO 24/11/2020 (Morning)

It is a conditional sentence which has two conditions and starts with a negative sense(cannot). It says one cannot lead a healthy life, one does not quit smoking. Unless is a negative conditional conjunction which means ‘If___not’ and it is used to combine these two conditions. Hence, Unless will replace although.

Conjunctions

Unless / until — no double negative

Identify the error in the sentence. This route is most safer than the highway.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 3)

The given sentence needs a comparative degree to make a comparison between the safety of this route and the highway. ‘Safer’ is the correct comparative degree. Therefore, ‘most’ must be removed. Hence, ‘most’ is the incorrect part.

Degrees of Comparison

Comparative degree form

This phone is (1) / expensiver than (2) / the model I used before (3) / for work (4).

Matriculation Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘More expensive’ is the correct comparative degree of ‘expensive’. Hence, ‘more expensive than’ is the most appropriate answer.

Degrees of Comparison

Comparative degree used with 'than'

The training programme of the new coach was (1)/ more effective than the previous coach, (2)/ as it offered better structure and helped (3)/ participants stay focused for a greater portion of the day. (4)

SSC CGL 14/10/2025 (Shift 2)

In the given sentence, the comparison is between the training programmes, not the coaches. Therefore, ‘the previous coach’ must be replaced with ‘that of the previous coach’. Hence, ‘more effective than that of the previous coach’ is the most appropriate answer.

Degrees of Comparison

Comparison must be like-with-like (that of / those of)

Identify the error in the sentence. Of all the applicants, she was the smarter.

Graduate Level 29/08/2025 (Shift - 1)

When there is a comparison between two persons or things, the comparative degree is used. But the given sentence compares one applicant with all the applicants, which means the comparison is made within a group of more than two. Therefore, the superlative degree ‘smartest’ will be used instead of ‘smarter’. Hence, ‘smartest’ is the most appropriate answer.

Degrees of Comparison

Superlative degree for three or more

Traditional practices are ways of knowing, learning and to generate a distinct experience of the world around us.

According to the ‘Rule of Parallelism’, two or more verbs must be in the same form if they are connected with one another. Similarly, in the given sentence, three verbs are connected to the noun ‘ways’. ‘To generate’ will be replaced with ‘generating’ to match the form of ‘knowing’ & ‘learning’. Hence, option (a) is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Each other (two) vs One another (more than two)

The ancient tree is famous for (1)/ it's beautiful, sprawling branches (2)/ which provide shade for the entire park (3)/during the hot summer months. (4)

SSC CGL 24/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The word “It’s” is a contraction and should be used where a sentence would read “it is.” “Its,” with no apostrophe, is the possessive pronoun, like “his” and “her,” used for nouns without gender. In the given sentence, the branches belong to the tree, so the possessive pronoun is required. Hence, "Its beautiful, sprawling branches" is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Its (possessive) vs It's (it is)

Ourselves should not boast of one’s knowledge.

‘Ourselves’ must be replaced with 'We' as we use a subjective case pronoun (I/we/you) as the subject of a sentence. Hence, 'We' is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun case — subject vs object form

Identify the error in the sentence. They was preparing for the event when the chief guest arrived.

Higher Secondary 29/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

In the given sentence, ‘they’ is a plural pronoun that will take ‘were’ as a plural verb. Therefore, ‘was’ must be replaced with ‘were’. Hence, ‘were’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

One must keep his promises.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The pronoun "One" is indefinite, so the corresponding possessive pronoun should also be indefinite ‘one's’, not "his." Therefore, the correct sentence should be ‘One must keep one’s promises’.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

Select the most appropriate option that rectifies the error(s) in the following sentence. One must do his/her duty proparly.

One’s is the correct possessive used for the pronoun ‘one’. Hence, the sentence given in option (d) is correct.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

We hardly knew nothing / about the manager / who had recently joined.

‘Nothing’ must be replaced with ‘anything’. ‘Hardly’ and ‘Nothing’ both are negative words so we can’t use them together. We generally use the pronoun ‘anything’ in negative and interrogative sentences. Hence, ‘ we hardly knew anything’ is the most appropriate answer. eduquity-based pattern (ebp) Questions (634 to 700)

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

One must do his/her duty proparly.

SSC CPO Tier II (08/01/2024)

Each pronoun has its own possessive adjective. For example (I/my), (he/his), (she/her), (one/one’s). Hence, option (b) is the correct sentence.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

I will never / judge you for / yours impromptu performance.

SSC CHSL 13/03/2023 (1st Shift)

We will not use another pronoun(yours) with the given pronoun(you). Instead, we will use an adjective ‘your’ that means relating to or belonging to you. Hence, ‘judge you for your impromptu performance’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

Bacteria are single - celled / organisms that can / reproduce on its own.

SSC CHSL 20/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

We will use a plural pronoun ‘their’ for the plural subject ‘organisms’ in the given sentence, not a singular pronoun ‘its’. Hence, ‘reproduce on their own’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

Everybody stared / when me / entered the / drawing room.

SSC CGL Tier II (07/03/2023)

We generally use the pronoun "I" when the person speaking is doing the action. Similarly, in the given sentence, the person(narrator) is doing the action. Therefore, ‘me’ will be replaced with ‘I’. Hence, ‘when I entered the drawing room’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

When Sanathan asked Mr. Jignesh / for a fresh evaluation of his performance / in the last financial year, / little did him know that the results will come out worse than expected.

SSC CHSL 01/06/2022 (Evening)

worse than expected We will replace the pronoun ‘him’ with the correct pronoun ‘he’ after the verb ‘did’ in the given sentence. Hence, ‘little did he know that the results will come out worse than expected’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

The manager said, “Could you please confirm me whether you have received all the items that you had ordered?”

SSC CGL 13/04/2022 (Afternoon)

The use of the pronoun ‘me’ is grammatically incorrect in the given sentence so it must be removed. Hence, ‘confirm whether you’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

We thought / there was a good idea / to wear snow boots / before we stepped out.

SSC CGL 13/04/2022 (Evening)

‘Idea’ in the given sentence is a singular subject and for it, we will use ‘it’ as a singular pronoun and not ‘there’. Hence, ‘it was a good idea’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

Lalitha will go / to sister’s house / in Mumbai / this summer.

SSC CGL18/08/2021 (Morning)

There is a pronoun error in the given sentence. The possessive pronoun ‘her’ that is generally used for a female subject(Lalitha in the given sentence) is missing. Hence, ‘to her sister’s house’ is the most appropriate structure.

Pronouns

Pronoun usage

What is the name / of the Swami / whom autobiography / impressed you so much?

SSC CGL Tier II (03/02/2022)

'Whom' is an object pronoun that refers to the person who was the recipient of an action. However, 'Whose' is a possessive pronoun that refers to the person to whom something belongs. Similarly, the given sentence refers to a Swami to whom the autobiography belongs. Hence, ‘whose autobiography’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Pronoun–antecedent agreement

You care for him / even more than for myself, / he cried bitterly.

SSC CHSL 13/03/2023 (3rd Shift)

When the narrator is the subject we use the reflexive pronoun ‘myself’, but in the given sentence the narrator is not the subject. Hence, ‘myself’ will be replaced with the correct objective pronoun ‘me’ & ‘even more than me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Reflexive pronoun misuse

She spotted the novel [A] / and shouted, "Here the book lies [B] / that we were searching for[C] / all around."[D]

‘That’ is a relative pronoun which takes a noun or pronoun as its antecedent. In the given sentence, ‘the book’ is the antecedent, which will be used before ‘that’. Hence, and shouted, “Here lies the book is the most appropriate answer.

Pronouns

Relative pronoun — who / whom / which / that

Seldom we realize (1)/ how fortunate we are (2)/ to have access to clean water (3)/ and healthy food. (4)

SSC CGL 17/09/2025 (Shift 2)

After a negative adverb like ‘seldom’, inversion is required. Inversion is a structure in which the helping verb comes before the subject and the main verb comes after the subject. The helping verb ‘do’ will be used for the plural subject ‘we’. Hence, ‘Seldom do we realize’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

The newly discovered species was (1)/ quite unique, possessing characteristics (2)/ that set it apart from (3)/ all its known relatives. (4)

SSC CGL 20/09/2025 (Shift 1)

‘Unique’ is an absolute or non-gradable adjective. This means we cannot use any quantifier with it. Therefore, ‘quite’ must be removed. Hence, ‘unique, possessing characteristics’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Identify the error in the sentence. He is a fastly growing leader in the organization.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

The word ‘fastly’ is incorrect. In the given sentence, an adverb is required, so the adverb ‘fast’ should be used instead of ‘fastly’’. Hence, ‘fast’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Raghu did not get the job / because he did not have / experience enough for the post.

‘Enough’ is an adjective which describes the noun ‘experience’, therefore ‘enough’ will be used before ‘experience’. Hence, ‘enough experience for the job’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

She is / as more intelligent as / her brothers are.

‘As + adjective/adverb + as’ is a comparative structure in which the adjective or the adverb is always in the positive degree. Therefore, ‘more’ will be replaced with ‘much’. Hence, ‘as much intelligent as’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Rahul thinks he is as smarter as his friends in the class.

‘As + adjective/adverb + as’ is a comparative structure in which we always use positive degree. Therefore, ‘smarter’ must be replaced with ‘smart’. Hence, ‘he is as smart as’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Today she said to her friend, “You’re the sweetest person I have met ever”.

‘Ever’ is an adverb of frequency. An adverb of frequency is generally placed before the main verb and after the helping verb. Therefore, ‘ever’ will be placed before the main verb ‘met’. Hence ‘I have ever met’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

His energetic attitude / showed that he had / soundly slept / the previous night.

‘Soundly slept’ must be replaced with ‘slept soundly’ as the adverb (soundly) will be used after the verb ‘slept’. Hence, ‘slept soundly’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

It is a cheap reasonably / restaurant in this part of the town / where you can eat / delicious food.

‘Reasonably’ is an adverb which modifies the adjective ‘cheap’ and the adverb is generally used before the adjective. Hence, ‘It is a reasonably cheap’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

He was consulted seldom by his colleagues while making important decisions on financial matters.

An adverb of frequency is generally placed after the helping verb and before the main verb in a sentence. Examples are :- often, always, seldom, never, etc. Therefore, ‘seldom’ will be placed after the helping verb ‘was’. Hence, ‘He was seldom consulted’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

She is enough wise not to interfere in their matter, once being insulted publicly by them.

The adverb ‘enough’ is always used after the adjective. Similarly, in the given sentence, ‘enough’ will be used after the adjective ‘wise’. Hence, ‘She is wise enough’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

(A) They were / (B) married happily / (C) before she / (D) quit her job.

‘Happily’ is an adverb that will be used before the adjective ‘married’ to modify its meaning. Hence, ‘happily married’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

The given sentence has an error. Choose the option that corrects the error Throw a rounder stone to create ripples in the water.

water.(Correct) (a) Throw the roundest stone to create ripples in the water.(Incorrect Adjective) (b) Throw a more round stone to create ripples in the water.(Incorrect Adjective) (c) Throw a more rounder stone to create ripples in the water.(Incorrect Adjective)

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Existentialism has a reputation for being angst-ridden and gloomy mostly because of its emphasis on pondering the meaningless of existence.

Adjective ‘Meaningless’ must be replaced with the noun ‘meaning’ as we need to use a noun to refer to the concept or state of existence. Hence, ‘on pondering the meaning of existence’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

I had / a bad habit of / waking up / lately.

Lately means recently while ‘late’ means after the usual or expected time. Adverb ‘late’ is the correct choice here as it denotes the person’s habit of waking up after the expected time in the past. Hence, ‘late’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

The food container / is not enough big to meet / the demands of the affected people.

‘Enough big’ must be replaced with ‘big enough’ as ‘enough’ is a special adverb and always used after the adjective(‘big’ in the given sentence). Hence, ‘is not big enough to meet’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

George handing the / hairpin to Ron, / a moment later.

The use of verb ‘handing’ is incorrect here because we can not use V₄(ing) as the main verb without a helping verb. The adverb ‘later’ indicates something happened after some time. ‘Handing’ will be replaced with the past form ‘handed’ to make it grammatically correct. Hence, ‘George handed the’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

I began with writing / one a week and / now I do so every day.

SSC MTS 20/06/2023 (Evening)

The phrase ‘one a week’ must be replaced with ‘once a week’ as we need to use an adverb of frequency ‘once’ instead of ‘one’. Hence, ‘once a week’ is the most appropriate answer. SSC CHSL 2022 Tier - 1

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Her failure in life / is too much / painful for me.

SSC CHSL 20/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

We will not use the adverb ‘much’ with the adjective ‘painful’ in the given sentence. Therefore, ‘much’ will be removed. Hence, ‘too painful for me’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

He was enough tall / to be admitted / into the armed forces.

SSC CPO 10/11/2022 (Evening)

We will place the adjective (tall) before the word ‘enough’ to correct the given sentence. Hence, ‘He was tall enough’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

I have watched a lot of students excel in online courses, taking fully advantage of the convenience.

SSC MTS 15/07/2022 (Evening)

The given sentence needs the adjective ‘full’ to describe the noun ‘advantage’. Hence, ‘excel in online courses, taking full’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

His successful as a lawyer / grew so fast that he soon had / enough money to buy a house.

SSC MTS 26/07/2022 (Afternoon)

We will replace the adjective(successful) with the noun(success) to grammatically correct the given sentence. Hence, ‘His success as a lawyer’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

“You can meet me always you like,” our teacher told us.

SSC MTS 18/10/2021 (Evening)

The word ‘always’ must be replaced with an adverb ‘anytime’ to grammatically correct the given sentence.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

You must avoid riding in a crowded bus / or travelling in a metro / during rush hour / as both are quiet unpleasant experiences.

SSC CGL 13/08/2021 (Morning)

Quiet is an adjective that means with very little or no noise & ‘Quite’ is an adverb that is used for emphasizing something. However, the given sentence does not talk about any sound or noise. Hence, ‘both are quite unpleasant experiences’ is the most appropriate structure.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

Only five minutes / are allowed / for each speaker / during the function.

SSC CHSL 11/08/2021 (Afternoon)

The compound nouns (numerical + noun) are not used as the plural if a noun does the work as an adjective. Here replace ‘are’ with ‘is’ to make the sentence grammatically correct. SSC CPO 2019 Tier - 2

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

She picked up the books lie on the table and put them on the shelf.

SSC CPO 25/11/2020 (Morning)

Lying is a non-finite verb which is acting as an adjective for the books in the given sentence. Hence, ‘Books lying on the table’ will be the correct sentence structure.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective / adverb choice

She gave a (1) / strongly reply (2) / to the accusations (3) / made against her. (4)

Matriculation Level 25/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The given sentence needs an adjective ‘strong’ to describe the noun ‘reply’, not the adverb ‘strongly’. Hence, ‘strong reply’ is the most appropriate answer.

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adjective, not adverb, qualifies a noun

Identify the error in the sentence. She danced graceful on stage during the annual show.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

In the given sentence, the word “graceful” is used as an adjective, but to describe the verb “danced,” we need an adverb. Therefore, the correct word should be “gracefully.”

Adjectives & Adverbs

Adverb, not adjective, modifies a verb/adjective

The volunteers, (1)/ while collecting supplies for the flood victims, (2)/ the storage facility was inspected (3)/ for safety compliance. (4)

SSC CGL 24/09/2025 (Shift 3)

In the given sentence, ‘The volunteers’ is the subject and the phrase ‘while collecting supplies for the flood victims’ modifies the subject. Here, ‘The volunteers’ is the doer of the action (inspecting), therefore, the verb should be in the active form, not in the passive form. Therefore, ‘the storage facility was inspected’ must be replaced with ‘inspected the storage facility’. Hence, ‘inspected the storage facility’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Active vs passive voice

The list of recommended candidates for various regional posts (1)/ were prepared in haste without proper background checks, (2)/ which resulted in several administrative complications (3)/ during the initial phase of deployment. (4)

SSC CGL 13/09/2025 (Shift 3)

which is singular. Therefore the singular verb ‘was’ will be used instead of ‘were’. Hence, ‘was prepared in haste without proper background checks’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The consensus was, not that the data itself was flawed, but that its interpretation by the junior analysts (1)/ were overly optimistic (2)/ given the volatile market conditions (3)/ and the inherent uncertainties. (4)

SSC CGL 15/09/2025 (Shift 3)

verb in this part of the sentence is "its interpretation" (singular), not "analysts" (plural). Therefore, the verb should be singular 'was', not plural 'were'. The correct phrasing should be "was overly optimistic". Hence, ‘was overly optimistic’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The minister assured that (1)/ all possible measures (2)/ were being taken to address (3)/ the crisis effectively. (4)

SSC CGL 18/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The verb “assured” when used with a direct object usually follows the structure “assured someone that…” In the given sentence, there is no object after “assured.” Hence, “assured the public that” or “assured the people (or us) that” is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The number of participants (1)/ in the advanced workshop (2)/ were surprisingly low (3)/ given the extensive promotion. (4)

SSC CGL 19/09/2025 (Shift 2)

“The number + of + plural noun + singular verb” is the correct grammatical structure. Therefore, ‘were’ must be replaced with the singular verb ‘was’. Hence, ‘was surprisingly low’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

She apologised (1)/ of the delay and (2)/ promised to submit (3)/ the report soon. (4)

SSC CGL 25/09/2025 (Shift 1)

‘For’ is used with the verb ‘apologise’ to indicate the reason for apology. Similarly, in the given sentence, ‘delay’ is the reason for apologizing. Hence, ‘for the delay’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The manager asked her (1) / to come up with (2) / to a new solution (3) / for the recurring problem. (4)

Matriculation Level 26/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The phrasal verb "to come up with" means to produce or suggest an idea or solution. The use of ‘to’ is incorrect here. Therefore, ‘to’ must be removed. Hence, ‘a new solution’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Identify the error in the sentence. She looked on the document to verify the final instructions.

Higher Secondary 28/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

‘On’ must be replaced with ‘at’. The phrasal verb ‘look at’ means to examine or check something carefully. The given sentence talks about reviewing the document to verify the final instructions. Hence, ‘looked at the document’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Identify the error in the sentence. He walked into the instructions to check if the steps were clear.

Higher Secondary 30/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

‘Into’ must be replaced with ‘through’. The phrasal verb ‘walk through’ means to go over or explain something step by step. The given sentence talks about checking or reviewing the instructions. Hence, ‘through’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The HR officer followed up (1)/ on the complaints (2)/ but could not draw on (3)/ the main issues raised by employees. (4)

Graduate Level 25/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘Draw on’ must be replaced with ‘draw out’. The phrasal verb ‘draw out’ means to elicit or extract information, which fits the context of identifying the main issues raised by employees. The given sentence talks about bringing out or identifying the key concerns. Hence, ‘could not draw out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The supervisor reached out (1)/ to the staff members (2)/ but could not figure up (3)/ the exact cause of the conflict. (4)

Graduate Level 26/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘Figure up’ must be replaced with ‘figure out’. The phrasal verb ‘figure out’ means to understand or determine something after thinking about it. The given sentence talks about identifying the exact cause of the conflict. Hence, ‘could not figure out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The company tried to bring over (1)/ fresh ideas (2)/ to improve customer (3)/ engagement strategies. (4)

Graduate Level 02/08/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘Bring over’ must be replaced with ‘bring in’. The phrasal verb ‘bring in’ means to introduce or introduce something new. The given sentence talks about introducing new or fresh ideas to improve customer engagement strategies. Hence, ‘tried to bring in fresh ideas’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

He could not cope up with the pressure.

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Cope up with’ is an incorrect verb. ‘Cope with’ is the correct phrasal verb, which means to deal with a difficult situation. Hence, ‘cope with’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

I returned back from Mumbai last week.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

In the given sentence, the verb “returned” already implies coming back, so adding “back” is redundant. Therefore, the correct sentence is “I returned from Mumbai last week”.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Identify the error in the sentence. He made a quick shower before heading to the office.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The correct verb to use with ‘shower’ is “have/take”. For example:- take a shower / have a shower. Past form ‘took’ will be used here. Hence, ‘took a quick shower’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The father with his sons are arriving soon.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 3)

The subject “The father” is singular, and the phrase “with his sons” is only an accompanying detail. Therefore, the verb should be singular. Hence, “is arriving soon” is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The judge ordered the prisoner to hung till death.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 3)

The verb “ordered” is followed by the base form of the verb after “to.” In the given sentence, “hung” should be replaced with “hang.” Therefore, “to hang till death” is the correct phrase.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The ship drowned in the sea.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The verb "drown" is used for humans or animals, not for ships. Therefore, the correct sentence is "The ship sank in the sea."

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The thief was hung for his crimes.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Hung’ must be replaced with ‘hanged’. The verb ‘hang’ has two third forms. ‘Hanged’ is used when we talk about the death penalty by a loop around the neck. ‘Hung’ is used when an object(clothes / painting) is suspended in the air with the support of a string or hook. The given sentence talks about punishing thief for his crimes. Hence, ‘hanged’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The committee have given its decision.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 3)

When a decision is taken unanimously by a team, jury or a committee, a singular verb is used. Similarly, in the given sentence, the committee has given a single decision. Therefore, ‘have’ must be replaced with the singular verb ‘has’. Hence, ‘has given’ is the most appropriate answer. eduquity-based pattern (ebp) Questions (224 to 305)

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The Supreme Court set away / the verdict of the High Court / and agreed to hear the plea / of the complainant.

‘Set away’ must be replaced with ‘set aside’. The phrasal verb ‘set aside’ means to deprive of legal effect because it has been proved wrong. The given sentence states that the Supreme Court set aside the verdict of the High Court. Hence, ‘The Supreme Court set aside’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Mrs. Premlatha asked / Malini to hand down / all the / payment slips.

‘Hand down’ must be replaced with ‘hand out’. The phrasal verb ‘hand out’ means to give a slip or document to someone. The given sentence talks about giving all the payment slips. Hence, ‘Malini to hand out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

He will have to / knuckle up really seriously, / if he wants to / crack the upcoming deal.

‘Knuckle up’ must be replaced with ‘knuckle down’. The phrasal verb ‘knuckle down’ means to put in serious effort. The given sentence states that he will have to knuckle down really seriously if he wants to crack the upcoming deal. Hence, ‘knuckle down really seriously’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Gita got onto / the book / she was reading / this morning.

‘Got onto’ must be replaced with 'got into'. The phrasal verb ‘got into’ means became interested in a subject or activity. The given sentence talks about the interest of Gita in the book she was reading. Hence, ‘Gita got into’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Although experts are worried / that retail inflation is rising / at a steep rate, / the crisis will soon blow away.

‘Blow away’ must be replaced with ‘blow over’. The phrasal verb ‘blow over’ means to pass by or to end. The given sentence states that the crisis will soon end. Hence, ‘the crisis will soon blow over’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

(1) We knocked across (2) early on Saturday (3) to enjoy (4) the beautiful weather.

‘Knocked across’ must be replaced with the phrasal verb ‘knocked off’. ‘Knock off’ means to stop work. The given sentence states that we stopped work early on Saturday to enjoy the beautiful weather. Hence, ‘We knocked off’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Throw of / the old shoes; / nobody will wear / them now.

‘Throw off’ is the correct phrasal verb to use here. ‘Throw off’ means to rid oneself of something. The given sentence talks about getting rid of the old shoes. Hence, ‘Throw off’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

His mother’s transfer from a small town to Delhi brought up a huge change in his schooling.

‘Brought up’ must be replaced with ‘brought about’. The phrasal verb ‘brought about’ is the past form of ‘bring about’, which means to cause something to happen. The given sentence talks about the huge change that happened due to his mother’s transfer. Hence, ‘brought about a huge change’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The companies were / giving in the prizes / to attract customers / during the festive season.

‘Giving in’ must be replaced with ‘giving out’ . The phrasal verb ‘giving out’ means to distribute or handing over something. While ‘giving in’ means to surrender. The given sentence talks about distributing the prizes. Hence ‘giving out the prizes’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Identify the error in the following sentence and select the option with the correct use of the phrasal verb. Prateek was planning to ask Shreya for a favour. But he could not muster up the courage. So, he blacked out.

he could not muster up the courage. So, he chickened out. ‘Blacked out’ must be replaced with ‘chickened out’. The phrasal verb ‘chickened out’ means to fail to do something due to fear. While ‘blacked out’ means to lose consciousness. Hence ‘chickened out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Identify the error in the following sentence and select the option with the correct use of the phrasal verb. The police inspector was trying to give out the contradicting stories in the scene of the accident.

contradicting stories in the scene of the accident. The phrasal verb ‘sort out’ means to understand something such as a reason or solution by thinking. The given sentence talks about understanding the contradictory stories. Hence, the sentence given in option (c) uses the correct phrasal verb.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The judges eliminated the / classical singer, as she dropped of / in the middle of the competition.

‘Dropped of’ must be replaced with ‘dropped out’. ‘Dropped out’ is a phrasal verb which means to quit or leave something before completion. Hence, ‘classical singer, as she dropped out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The workers called out / the strike because / the management acceded to / all their demands.

‘Called off’ is the correct phrasal verb to use here. ‘Called off’ means to cancel an event or agreement. Similarly, the workers cancelled the strike. Hence, ‘The workers called off’ is the most appropriate answer. eduquity-based pattern (ebp) Questions (388 to 469)

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The chief guest gave out prizes to the meritorious students of the school.

‘Gave out’ must be replaced with ‘gave away’. The phrasal verb ‘give away’ means to give something away as a gift. The given sentence talks about giving away gifts. Hence, ‘gave away prizes’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

It is his job / to chase out / clients with / outstanding debts.

‘Chase out’ must be replaced with ‘chase down’. The phrasal verb ‘chase down’ means to follow and catch someone. The given sentence states that it is his job to chase down clients with outstanding debts. Hence, ‘to chase down’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Select the incorrect form of the verb.

‘Stricken’ is the correct verb form.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

When Ramu was working / as a clerk, / he asked me money.

‘Asked me money’ must be replaced with ‘asked me for money’. The phrasal verb ‘ask for’ means to try to obtain something by requesting. Similarly, Ramu tried to obtain some money by requesting. Hence, ‘he asked me for money’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The sons of the old farmer / fell off after their father / breathed his last / in the village.

‘Fell off’ must be replaced with ‘fell apart’. The phrasal verb ‘fall apart’ means to become separated. The given passage talks about separation of the sons. Hence, ‘fell apart after their father’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

I have never / come to / such a kind person / like my friend.

‘Come across’ is a phrasal verb which means to meet or find by accident. Hence, ‘come across to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

She performed / the dance routine / perfect, / impressing everyone.

‘Perfect’ must be replaced with ‘perfectly’ as we generally use adverbs to modify the meaning of the verb(performed). Hence, ‘perfectly’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

After working so much / in the fields yesterday / did you took a break?

‘Took’ must be replaced with ‘take’ as we generally use the first form of the verb(V1) after ‘did’. Hence, ‘did you take a break’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The police could not / hold on the people / for long as they / gathered in large numbers.

‘On’ must be replaced with ‘back’ as the “Hold back" is a phrasal verb that means to stop or prevent someone or something. Hence, ‘hold back the people’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Dr. Sinha has / brought about a new / book on social / impact of child labour.

SSC CGL 17/09/2024 (1st Shift)

‘Brought out’ is the correct phrasal verb here, which means ‘published’. The given sentence is talking about publishing a new book. Hence, ‘brought out a new’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Susan had recently run on to / Catherine at the supermarket, they / were seeing each other after many years.

SSC MTS 14/06/2023 (Evening)

The correct phrasal verb is ‘run into’. ‘Run into’ means to accidentally meet someone. Hence, ‘Susan had recently run into’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

He spent a great deal of time / writing on his legal pad and aggressive / underlining whatever he was writing.

SSC MTS 20/06/2023 (Morning)

‘Aggressive’ must be replaced with ‘aggressively’ as we generally use adverbs to modify the meaning of a verb (underlining). Hence, ‘writing on his legal pad and aggressively’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Around 30 percent of the / Indian population are estimated / to have latent TB.

SSC CHSL 14/03/2023 (4th Shift)

‘Thirty Percent of + Subject + Singular verb’ is the correct grammatical structure for the given sentence. Hence, ‘Indian population is(singular verb) estimated’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The meeting was held upon / for an hour/ due to non-availability / of the committee members.

SSC CGL 12/12/2022 (1st Shift)

‘Held up’ is a phrasal verb which means to delay the progress of something. The given sentence states that the meeting was held up for an hour due to non-availability of the committee members. Hence, ‘the meeting was held up” is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Contented people seldom complaint against their fate.

SSC CGL Tier II ( 08/08/2022 )

‘Complaint’ will be replaced with ‘Complain’ as we need a verb to make the sentence grammatically correct. Hence, ‘seldom complain’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

But this immortality / will have purchased / at the price of / his immortal part.

SSC MTS 12/07/2022 (Afternoon)

The verb ‘been’ is missing from the given sentence. Hence, ‘will have been purchased’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Spot the error in the given sentence and select the correct sentence from the options given. Is Savita is joining us for lunch today?

SSC CHSL 31/05/2022 (Morning)

(b) Savita is joined us for lunch today? (Incorrect Sentence Structure) (c) Savita joining us for lunch today? (Incorrect Sentence Structure) (d) Are Savita joining us for lunch today? (Incorrect Verb)

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

When the villagers put up a firm resistance to the fearsome bandit with all their might, he ultimately fleed the spot

SSC CHSL 07/06/2022 (Evening)

fearsome bandit with all their might, he ultimately fled the spot.(Correct) (a) When the villagers put up a firm resistance to the fearsome bandit with all their might, he ultimately flew the spot.(Incorrect verb used) (b) When the villagers putted up a firm resistance to the fearsome bandit with all their might, he ultimately fleed the spot.(Incorrect verb used) (c) When the villagers put up a firm resistance to the fearsome bandit with all their might, he ultimately flown the spot.(Incorrect verb used)

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The General have ordered that the troops should move immediately.

SSC CHSL 08/06/2022 (Afternoon)

The general is singular so singular verb has will be used. Have is incorrect. The correct sentence will be- The General has ordered that the troops should move immediately.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

As soon as we went for an afternoon siesta, my pet rabbit Tia digged a huge hole right in the middle of the lawn.

SSC CHSL 10/06/2022 (Morning)

rabbit Tia dug a huge hole right in the middle of the lawn.(Correct) (a) As soon as we were going for an afternoon siesta, my pet rabbit Tia digged a huge hole right in the middle of the lawn.(Incorrect word- The past form of dig is dug) (c) As soon as we gone for an afternoon siesta, my pet rabbit Tia digged a huge hole right in the middle of the lawn.(Incorrect word - The past form of dig is dug) (d) As soon as we gone for an afternoon siesta, my pet rabbit Tia dug a huge hole right in the middle of the lawn.(Incorrect verb) SSC CGL 2021 Tier - 1

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

There have been /three breaks-in /in our society/ this month.

SSC CGL 18/04/2022 (Afternoon)

‘Break-in’ is a phrasal verb which means to enter a building by force, usually in order to steal something. However, the given sentence talks about three attempts so we will use the plural form of ‘break-in’. Hence, ‘three break-ins’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Not get into the car; it has not been cleaned inside.

SSC MTS 14/10/2021 (Morning)

The given sentence must start with a verb ‘do’ which is missing. Hence, ‘Do not get’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

Einstein’s school teachers thought he would never success in life.

SSC CHSL 12/04/2021 (Afternoon)

Succeed is a verb that means to manage to achieve what you want. But, success is a noun. However, the given sentence needs a verb. Hence, ‘never succeed’ is the most appropriate structure.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

He wanted to know / the reason / why his low score / in Mathematics.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

If an Interrogative sentence(in which a question is asked) is written in the Indirect form(speech), then “Wh-word(why, when, where) + Subject + Verb” is grammatically the correct structure for it. Hence, ‘why his(subject) score was(verb) low’ is the most appropriate structure.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The jury are from different parts of the country.

SSC CPO 24/11/2020 (Evening)

Jury/Team/Committee are considered as a singular subject and will take a singular verb, until they are divided in their opinion/views. For example, the Jury(Singular subject) has given its decision(United) , the committee(Plural subject) are divided in their opinion(Divided). Similarly in the given question, ‘the jury is(singular verb) from different parts of the country’ is the most appropriate structure.

Verbs & Modals

Correct verb form

The committee’s revised proposal (1)/ aimed at improving transparency (2)/ unexpectedly creating (3)/ new layers of administrative delay. (4)

Graduate Level 29/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

The given sentence needs a finite verb to show what the proposal actually did. The word ‘creating’ is a present participle and cannot function as the main verb of the clause without an auxiliary verb. Therefore, ‘creating’ must be replaced with a finite verb such as ‘created’. Hence, ‘unexpectedly created' is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Helping verb / auxiliary agreement

The manager, along with her entire team, (1)/ expects that the project will be completed (2)/ before the deadline, and they shall submits (3)/ the final report on Friday. (4)

SSC CGL 12/09/2025 (Shift 2)

‘Submits’ must be replaced with ‘submit’. When using modal verbs like 'shall' (or 'will', 'can', 'may', etc.), the main verb that follows must be in its base form. Therefore, 'shall submit' is the correct form. Hence, 'and they shall submit' is the most appropriate correction.

Verbs & Modals

Modal verb + V1 (base form)

The teacher recommended that (1)/ each student submits (2)/ the assignment (3)/ by the end of the week. (4)

Graduate Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

After verbs like ‘recommend, suggest, insist, demand’, the base form(V1) of the verb is used in the present tense even if the subject is plural. Therefore, ‘submits’ must be replaced with ‘submit’. Hence, ‘each student submit’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Subjunctive — base form after insist / suggest / recommend / demand

The committee's objectives included (1)/ increasing membership, improving communication channels, and (2)/ to foster a sense of community (3)/ among its diverse members. (4)

SSC CGL 12/09/2025 (Shift 3)

According to the 'Rule of Parallelism', two or more words or phrases in a list must be in the same form. In the given sentence, "increasing membership" and "improving communication channels" are gerund phrases. "To foster a sense of community" is an infinitive phrase. To maintain parallelism, the third item should also be a gerund phrase. Hence, "and fostering a sense of community" is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

To + V1 (infinitive)

She emphasized on (1)/ the need for (2)/ regular practice (3)/ to improve performance. (4)/

SSC CGL 19/09/2025 (Shift 3)

The verb “emphasize” is not followed by “on.” It is a transitive verb that takes a direct object. Hence, “emphasized the need for” is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Transitive verb takes a direct object (no preposition)

We are looking forward (1) / to hear from you (2) / regarding the interview (3) / scheduled for tomorrow. (4)

Higher Secondary 29/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

The phrase ‘look forward to’ is always followed by a gerund (V-ing). Therefore, ‘to hear’ should be replaced with ‘to hearing’. Hence, ‘to hearing from you’ is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Used to / accustomed to / look forward to + V-ing

Had she not postponed the meeting several times, (1)/ the committee would have had a greater opportunity (2)/ to discussing the budget allocations in detail (3)/ before the quarterly report was finalized. (4)

SSC CGL 23/09/2025 (Shift 3)

After "to", we use the base form of the verb, not the gerund (-ing form). Hence, “opportunity to discuss” is the most appropriate answer.

Verbs & Modals

Verbs followed by a gerund (V-ing)

She insisted to accompany me.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

In the given sentence, the verb “insist” is correctly followed by “on” + gerund (V‑ing form). Therefore, the correct sentence is “she insisted on accompanying me.”

Verbs & Modals

Verbs followed by a gerund (V-ing)

Identify the proper explanation of the error in the given sentence. Mohan insisted to go there.

gerund are required. The correct sentence should read like this: Mohan insisted on going there.

Verbs & Modals

Verbs followed by a gerund (V-ing)

You and I / have submitted / your work / on time.

SSC CGL 21/04/2022 (Morning)

‘Our’ is the possessive form of ‘we’ and it means something belonging to us(more than a single person). Similarly in the given sentence, the work belongs to both the persons and not to a single person. Hence, ‘our work’ is the most appropriate structure.

Nouns & Number

Possessive apostrophe

The fishermen caught many fishes (1)/ from the lake yesterday (2)/ and sold them in the market (3)/ at a good price. (4)/

SSC CGL 17/09/2025 (Shift 2)

Generally, the plural of ‘fish’ is ‘fish’. ‘Fishes’ is used only when there is a mention of different species of fish. But there is no such mention in the sentence. Hence, ‘The fisherman caught many fish’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

To ensure fairness during the (1) / competition, the judges carefully (2) / examined every entries before making (3) / their final decision on the winners.(4)

Matriculation Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘Everyone/each/ every/ nothing/ everything/ anything/ either/ neither’ represents a singular noun. Therefore, ‘entries’ must be replaced with the singular noun ‘entry’. Hence, ‘examined every entry before making’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

She glanced (1) / at the papers (2) / and saw some (3) / lines of poetry. (4)

Matriculation Level 28/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

The word ‘poetry’ is generally used in the singular form. Therefore, the use of ‘poetries’ is incorrect. Hence, ‘lines of poetry’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

Each students in the science club (1) / participated in the workshop (2) / conducted by the visiting professor (3) / last weekend. (4)

Higher Secondary 26/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

‘Everyone/ each/ every/ nothing/ everything/ anything/ either/ neither’ represents a singular noun. Therefore, ‘students’ should be replaced with the singular noun ‘student’. Hence, ‘Each student in the science club’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

Each participant who registered online for the event (1)/ were given a welcome kit (2)/ along with the program schedule and map (3)/ at the helpdesk near the entrance. (4)/

SSC Stenographer 06/08/2025 (Shift 1)

‘Everyone/each/ every/ nothing/ everything/ anything/ either/ neither’ represents a singular noun. Singular verbs are used with them. Therefore, ‘were’ will be replaced with ‘was’. Hence, ‘was given a welcome kit’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

You know that I am fond of reading / and also that all books are my favourite / but you don’t know that this is one of / my favourite book.

‘One of + plural noun’ is the correct grammatical structure. Therefore, the plural noun ‘books’ will be used. Hence, ‘my favourite books’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

Can we make sure we have a lots of fun on the trip?

The correct phrase is ‘a lot of’. Its plural form is ‘lots of’. Therefore, ‘lot’ will be used in place of ‘lots’. Hence, ‘a lot of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

Peoples might confess / just to get out of / the interrogation room.

‘Peoples’ must be replaced with ‘people’ as people is already the plural form and it doesn’t require ‘s’ to make its plural form. Hence, ‘people might confess’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

Balloons filled with helium / travel hundreds or / even thousands of mile.

SSC CHSL 17/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

We will use the plural form of the noun ‘mile’ in the given sentence. Hence, ‘thousands of miles’ is the most appropriate answer.

Nouns & Number

Singular / plural noun form

It was not until she finished her degree (1)/ and gained some experience (2)/ did she feel confident enough (3)/ to start her own business. (4)/

SSC CGL 17/09/2025 (Shift 3)

The structure “It was not until” requires that the clause which follows should be in the affirmative form, not in the interrogative structure. Hence, “that she felt confident” is the most appropriate answer.

Sentence Structure

Clause structure / connector

Hurray! Here is the toy / what I was looking for / as my birthday gift.

‘What’ must be replaced with ‘that’ as when we introduce a relative clause that provides more information about a noun, we typically use "that" or "which" instead of "what". Hence, ‘that i was looking for’ is the most appropriate answer.

Sentence Structure

Clause structure / connector

Let us work out the details of our endeavour, shouldn’t we?

‘Shall we’ is the correct question tag for an imperative sentence starting with ‘let us’. Hence, ‘shall we’ is the most appropriate answer.

Sentence Structure

Question tag

The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains a spelling error. The make-up room was filled / with incadescent lights / which added to the misery / of those subjected to make-up.

‘Incandescent’ is the correct spelling.

Word Usage & Idioms

Commonly confused words

The given sentence is divided into four segments. Identify the segment that contains a spelling error. When the famous businessman / faced a huge loss / in his business, / no one expressed simpathy.

‘Sympathy’ is the correct spelling.

Word Usage & Idioms

Commonly confused words

We have to be cautius regarding the impact of global warming.

‘Cautious’ is the correct spelling.

Word Usage & Idioms

Commonly confused words

The speaker’s emphasiss is on the present-day problems that are being faced by ordinary men of India.

‘Emphasis’ is the correct spelling.

Word Usage & Idioms

Commonly confused words

There was a saying that they’re their own enemies with negligble reason to be shared.

‘Negligible’ is the correct spelling.

Word Usage & Idioms

Commonly confused words

The new algorithm, designed to process vast amounts of data, (1)/ promises to revolutionise our approach to analytics, (2)/ but it also rises concerns (3)/ about data privacy and ethical implications. (4)

SSC CGL 15/09/2025 (Shift 3)

'Rises' must be replaced with 'raises'. 'Rise' means to move upwards or get up, while 'raise' means to bring up a topic for debate or discussion. In this context, concerns are being brought up, so 'raises' is the correct verb. Hence, ‘but it also raises concerns’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Confusable verb pair (rise/raise, lie/lay, sit/set)

They were laid / in the sun / the entire morning / till Sudharshan came.

The given sentence is an example of passive voice of Past Continuous Tense and the subject ‘they’ is plural. ‘Plural Sub. + were + Ving‘ is the correct grammatical structure for this sentence. ‘Laid’ must be replaced with ‘lying’ as ‘lying’ means resting in a horizontal position. Hence, ‘they were lying’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Confusable verb pair (rise/raise, lie/lay, sit/set)

When we cook garlic, the sulphide / molecules raise into the air / and fill the room with their pleasing aroma.

SSC CHSL 10/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

‘Rise’ means something(smoke, gas,etc.) moving upwards in the air. It will replace ‘raise’ in the given sentence. Hence, ‘the sulphide molecules rise into the air’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Confusable verb pair (rise/raise, lie/lay, sit/set)

He seldom if never (1)/ visits his family, (2)/ even though they live (3)/ in the same town. (4)

SSC CGL 18/09/2025 (Shift 3)

'Seldom if never' should be replaced with 'seldom if ever'. The correct phrase is 'seldom if ever', meaning very rarely or almost never. 'Seldom if never' is grammatically incorrect. Hence, 'He seldom if ever' is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

He seldom if never agrees to attend public events without thorough preparation.

SSC CGL 23/09/2025 (Shift 1)

The correct phrase is “seldom if ever”, which means rarely. Hence, ‘seldom if ever’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The volunteers served sandwiches (1)/ to all the hungry children (2)/ at the shelter on paper plates (3)/ decorated with colorful patterns. (4)

SSC CGL 24/09/2025 (Shift 2)

The phrase “on paper plates” is meant to describe how the sandwiches were served, but its placement in the sentence makes it sound like the children or the shelter were on the plates. It should be placed closer to the word it modifies. Hence “The volunteers served sandwiches on paper plates to all the hungry children at the shelter” is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

She described (1) / the incident (2) / in much details (3) / to the police. (4)

Matriculation Level 26/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘In detail’ is the correct phrase, which means including or considering all the information about something. Hence, ‘in detail’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

You should not laugh on others.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 2)

‘Laugh at someone’ is the correct phrase, which means to make fun of someone. Hence, ‘laugh at others’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

I hope that / yesterday's lunch / at Rahul's place / was at your liking.

“To one’s liking” is the correct phrase, which means appealable or enjoyable to someone. Therefore, ‘at your liking’ must be replaced with ‘to your liking’. Hence, ‘was to your liking’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The teacher was / taken back by / the audacity of / the new student. ABCD

‘Taken back by’ must be replaced with ‘taken aback by’. The phrase ‘to be taken aback’ means to be very shocked or surprised. The given sentence states that the teacher was shocked by the audacity of the new student. Hence, ‘taken aback by’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

None than you deserve credit for the success of this project.

‘Than’ must be replaced with ‘but’. The correct phrase is ‘none but’ or ‘none other than’, which means ‘only’. Hence, ‘none but you’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

I will definitely accept the responsibility while the time comes.

‘While’ must be replaced with ‘when’. The phrase ‘when the time comes’ is used to state an action that will be done in the suitable circumstances. Hence, ‘when the time comes’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

Parts of the following sentence have been underlined and given as options. Select the option that contains an error. We think of the past history of the world as fixed but of the future as undecided and open to a wealth off possibilities.

‘Wealth of something’ is the correct phrase which means a lot of something. Hence, ‘wealth of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

(A) This fridge/ (B) comes including / (C) a 5-year / (D) warranty.

We use the phrase 'including' to give further examples of people or things that we are talking about. The phrase 'come with' means having something as an essential part. Similarly, warranty is an essential part of the fridge. ’Hence, 'comes with' is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

Nobody from the gathering / of odd people could guess / the accident occurring blast.

‘Occurring’ must be replaced with ‘that caused the’ as ‘caused’ means to make something happen. The phrase "that caused the blast" is used to clarify that the accident was responsible for the blast. Hence, ‘that caused the blast’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

With reference of your letter, / the organisation wishes to hire you / for the security services.

‘Of’ must be replaced with ‘to’ as ‘with reference to’ is the correct phrase which means about or concerning(something). Hence, ‘with reference to your letter’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The soldier met / a fearless death / fighting on behalf at his country.

‘On behalf at his country’ must be replaced with ‘on behalf of his country’. The phrase ‘on behalf of’ is used to indicate that someone is acting or speaking for another person, group or organisation. Hence, ‘fighting on behalf of his country’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The news / is / very good / to be true.

‘Very’ must be replaced with ‘too’ as ‘too good to be true’ is an idiom that means something is so positive or favorable. Hence, ‘too good’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The students were / able to get better from / college early so they / went to the movies.

‘Better’ must be replaced with ‘back’ as the phrase ‘get back’ means to return. Hence, ‘get back’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

All of the farmers I / interviewed shared three / things on common.

The phrase ‘in common’ is used to describe similarity between two or more things or persons. The given sentence is talking about similarity between all of the farmers that were interviewed. Hence, ‘things in common’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The gentleman had a suitcase full with wigs, ornaments and dresses.

SSC CGL Tier II ( 08/08/2022 )

‘Full with’ will be replaced with ‘Full of’ as the phrase ‘Full of’ means completely, including the whole of something. Hence, ‘A suitcase full of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

I was angry / on myself / for making / such a silly mistake.

SSC CGL 19/04/2022 (Afternoon)

‘Angry with someone’ is grammatically the correct phrase for the given sentence. Hence, ‘angry with myself’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

Won’t you / please come / to help me / along this heavy box?

SSC CGL 17/08/2021 (Morning)

The phrase “Would/Will/Can you help me with this______” is grammatically the correct structure that we use when we ask someone for help in doing something. Similarly, in the given sentence, the narrator is asking someone to help him/her lift a heavy bag. Hence, ‘with this heavy box’ is the most appropriate structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

His loyalty / and honesty / are above / suspect.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

The phrase ‘above suspicion’ is used to describe someone who would never be suspected of doing anything wrong. Similarly, the given sentence states that his honesty and loyalty are above suspicion. Hence, ‘suspicion’ is the most appropriate structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct idiom / fixed phrase

The crow held back / to the piece / of bread / with its claws.

SSC MTS 05/10/2021 (Evening)

‘Held back’ means to not do something & ‘held on’ means to maintain a grasp on something.Both are phrasal verbs. Similarly, in the given sentence, the crow grasps the piece of bread with its claws. Hence, ‘the crow held on’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct phrasal verb

She had barely finished writing her essay (1)/ then the power went out, (2)/ leaving her work unsaved (3)/ and her progress lost. (4)

SSC CGL 14/09/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Barely’ forms a pair with ‘when’, not ‘then’. Hence, ‘when the power went out’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The central bank's decision not only aimed to curve inflation (1)/ but also intended to stimulate economic growth, (2)/ a dual objective that proved challenging (3)/ to balance effectively. (4)

SSC CGL 16/09/2025 (Shift 2)

inflation (1) The use of ‘curve’ is incorrect in this sentence. Rather, we need to use the word ‘curb’, which means to control inflation. Hence, “The central bank’s decision not only aimed to curb inflation” is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The new decorative pillows (1)/ perfectly compliment the colors (2)/ of the sofa and the curtains, (3)/ tying the whole room together. (4)/

SSC CGL 21/09/2025 (Shift 2)

In the given sentence, the word compliment is incorrectly used. The word compliment means to praise or express admiration, whereas complement means to complete or go well with something. Hence, “perfectly complement the colors” is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The company has decided (1)/ to implement new strategies (2)/ in order to boost its sale (3)/ and improve customer satisfaction. (4)/

SSC CGL 26/09/2025 (Shift 3)

The word “sale” (singular) usually refers to a single transaction or act of selling, while “sales” (plural) refers to overall revenue, business performance, or multiple transactions. Hence, “in order to boost its sales” is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

We walked (1) / across the riverbank (2) / and rested (3) / under the old bridge. (4)

Matriculation Level 24/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘Across’ must be replaced with ‘along’. ‘Across’ is used when moving from one side to the other. ‘Along’ is used to indicate the movement next to something long such as a road or a river. The given sentence talks about walking beside the riverbank. Hence, ‘along the riverbank’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

I have known him (1) / since ten years (2) / and we still (3) / meet regularly (4).

Matriculation Level 30/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

‘For’ is used with fixed numerals. For example:- two days, three months, five years, etc. Hence, ‘for ten years’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Identify the word in this sentence that contains an error. She dived on the lake during summer vacation.

Higher Secondary 25/07/2025 (Shift - 2)

‘On’ is used to indicate the presence of something on a surface. ‘Into’ is used to indicate movement towards the inside. The given sentence talks about movement towards the inside of the lake. Hence, ‘into’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He is living in Chennai since five years.

SSC Stenographer 08/08/2025 (Shift 1)

‘Since’ is used to indicate a starting point in time. To indicate a duration of time, we use ‘for.’ Therefore, ‘for five years’ is the correct form.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The ancient trees of this forest did not propagate in the release of seeds.

‘In’ must be replaced with ‘through’. ‘Through’ is used to indicate the method or means of doing something. The given sentence states that the release of seeds was not the means of propagation. Hence, ‘propagate through’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

India’s coastline stretches / for over 7,500 kilometres, / to offer a plethora of / must visit beaches and coastal destinations.

Present participle(Ving) is used to provide additional information about something, especially after the comma at the end of a sentence. ‘To offer’ must be replaced with ‘offering’. Hence, ‘offering a plethora of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

I was with the impression that I had returned the books that I had borrowed from you.

‘Under the impression’ is used when a person thinks that something is true, but in reality it is not. ‘With’ must be replaced with ‘under’. Hence, ‘I was under the impression’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

You have said that, / as he took money from you many times, / he owes you / five thousand rupees all together.

‘All together’ must be replaced with ‘altogether’, which means totally. Hence, ‘five thousand rupees altogether’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The compensation that the [A] / Government agreed to provide to [B] / the dependents of the [C] / train accident is fairly less [D].

‘Less’ must be replaced with ‘low’ as there is no comparison in this sentence. Hence, ‘train accident is fairly low’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Mr. Unkerton glanced / to the inspector, / who merely snorted / and looked at the ceiling.

‘To’ must be replaced with ‘at’ as we use ‘at’ with ‘glance’ for a person. Hence, ‘at the inspector’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

John is really / good in/ playing/ the piano.

The structure ‘good + at + Ving’ is used to show that you are very skilful and clever at doing something. Hence, ‘good at’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He climbed of / the steep mountain trail, / his backpack heavy / with supplies for the journey.

‘Climbed of’ must be replaced with ‘climbed up’. ‘Up’ is used to indicate upwards movement. Hence, ‘he climbed up’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He missed the college bus / because he woke up / unpardonably lately in the morning.

‘Lately’ must be replaced with ‘late’. ‘Late’ means after the usual or expected time. ‘Lately’ means in the recent times. The given sentence is talking about waking up after the expected time in the morning. Hence, ‘unpardonably late in the morning’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Our family is planning / a trip to Europe next summer / where we should visit several famous / landmarks and enjoy local cuisine.

‘Should’ must be replaced with ‘will’ as the action of visiting several famous landmarks will happen in the future (next summer). Hence, ‘where we will visit several famous’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Solutions to the country’s interior problems are still a long way away.

The correct word to use in this sentence is ‘internal’, not ‘interior’. ‘Internal’ means occurring inside a country. Hence, the country’s internal is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

My brother received / his MBA degree into / the university last year.

‘Into’ must be replaced with 'from' as we use ‘from’ to indicate the source of something. Hence, ‘his MBA degree from’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He replied / in a dry tone, / “Ouch! I will not work / for you anymore.”

‘Ouch!’ is used to express pain. However, in the given sentence, the speaker replied in a dry tone. So, the correct interjection to use is ‘Ugh!’. Hence, ‘Ugh! I will not work for you anymore’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Brr, the city view from the Eiffel Tower is amazing !

An interjection is a word or phrase used to express a sudden feeling. ‘Brr’ is used to express the sensation of cold. ‘Wow’ is used to express a sudden feeling of amazement. Hence, ‘Wow’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

People admired him, for / he lived by the same principals / that he preached.

‘Principals’ must be replaced with ‘principles’ as the given sentence talks about a kind of belief or idea that guides you. Hence, ‘he lived by the same principles’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He never talks / for anybody. / He is alone / all day.

‘To’ is used to denote the person to whom someone is talking. Hence, ‘to anybody’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Mr. Ali’s shop / is further to / the hospital.

‘Farther than’ will be used instead of ‘further to’. ‘Further’ is used for metaphorical distance where ‘farther’ is used for physical distance. The given sentence is talking about the physical distance between Mr. Ali’s shop and the hospital. Hence, ‘farther than’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

In some countries, you are not able to drink until you are 21

The correct word to use here is ‘allowed’ instead of ‘able’. The given sentence states that you are not allowed to drink until you are 21. Hence, ‘allowed to drink’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The company specialises at / designing, crafting and manufacturing / exquisite, high-quality furniture / of exceptional craftsmanship.

‘At’ must be replaced with ‘in’ we use ‘in’ to talk about skill, proficiency or specialisation in a field. Hence, ‘The company specialises in’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Please go and meet the chairperson. / She will be / away for the / few next days.

The order of adjectives is wrong in this phrase. The correct order would be ‘next few days’. Hence, 'next few days' is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The teacher asked him not to keep disturbing the class, but it had no affect.

‘Affect’ must be replaced with ‘effect’ as we need a noun here to make the sentence meaningful. Hence, ‘but it had no effect’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The couple /preferred to walk / until the last house / of the town.

‘Until’ must be replaced by ‘to’ because when referring to a destination or endpoint, ‘to’ is used. Hence, ‘to the last house’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Since the little girl answers / a few simple questions, / her parents say that / she is too intelligent.

‘Too’ must be replaced with ‘very’. ‘Too’ is used in a sentence with a negative sense. Hence ‘she is very intelligent’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

It is difficult to live in / the societal expectations / when one has / fewer resources. ABCD

‘Live in’ must be replaced by ‘Live up to’. ‘Live up to’ means to meet or match the expectations set by someone or something. Hence ‘It is difficult to live up to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

(1) When Christy (2) grew out, (3) he turned out (4) to be a gentleman.

‘Grew out’ must be replaced with ‘grew up’ which means to mature or become an adult. The given sentence talks about Christy becoming an adult. Hence, ‘grew up’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The aeroplane took down / without the passengers after / making a sudden announcement.

‘Took down’ must be replaced with ‘took off’. ‘Took off’ means to begin flight. While ‘took down’ means to defeat someone. The given sentence talks about the flight of the aeroplane. Hence ‘The aeroplane took off’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The soldiers / were selected / on the section / of ‘gallantry of spirits’.

Use of the word ‘section’ is incorrect here. Rather, we will use the word ‘basis’ to make the sentence meaningful. ‘Basis’ means a particular condition that is used as a reference. Hence, ‘on the basis’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

‘You expressed your opinion/ very clearly /but I am sorry/ I cannot agree to you’.

‘With’ is used after ‘agree’ in the case of a person. Hence, ‘I cannot agree with you’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Identify the error in the given sentence and select the correct sentence from the given options. This is the story of eight round planets, the few rocks in between, and some comets.

in between, and some comets. ‘The few’ must be replaced with ‘a few’. ‘The few’ is used for something specific or particular. But the rocks are not specific. Hence, ‘a few rocks’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Had you been / working regularly, / you had completed / the project yesterday.

‘Would have’ is used to indicate the result of a past unreal condition. In the given sentence, ‘working regularly’ is the past unreal condition and ‘completing the project’ is its result. Hence, ‘you would have completed’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

We cannot postpone discussion on this issue although it is urgent.

‘Although’ must be replaced with ‘as / because’. The issue is urgent, that is why discussion on it can not be postponed. Here, we need a connector to show the cause or reason. Hence, ‘because it is urgent’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Are you yet afraid of going out in the dark?

‘Yet’ must be replaced with ‘still’. ‘Yet’ is used to show contrast between two events. ‘Still’ is used to show that an action was happening in the past and continuing in the present. Hence, ‘Are you still’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

There is a spectrum / of seas around that /land which attracts/tourists of all aging.

‘Aging’ must be replaced with ‘ages’. ‘Of all ages’ is a phrase which means people belonging to all age groups. Hence, ‘tourists of all ages’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The postman / delivers the letters / through hand, / door to door.

‘By’ is used to show the means or method used to do something whereas ‘through’ is used to talk about the process by which something happens. Similarly, the given sentence shows that the postman delivers the letters using his hands. Hence, ‘by hand’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

I was wish / to meet her / on her birthday.

‘I was wish’ must be replaced with ‘I wish’ as we generally use the expression ‘I wish’ to express wishes or desires. Hence, ‘I wish’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The given sentence contains an error. Select the option that correctly rectifies the error. The boy told his mother that he saw the most tall giraffe at the zoo.

giraffe at the zoo.(Correct) (b) The boy told his mother that he saw the most taller giraffe at the zoo.(Incorrect Degree) (c) The boy told his mother that he saw the most tallest giraffe at the zoo.(Incorrect Degree) (d) The boy told his mother that he saw the more taller giraffe at the zoo.(Incorrect Degree)

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Earlier, he was feeling better, but things took a turn for the bad.

for the worst.(Correct) (b) Earlier, he was feeling good, but things took a turn for the bad.(Incorrect Word) (c) Earlier, he was feeling well, but things took a turn for the ill.(Incorrect Degree) (d) Earlier, he was feeling better, but things took a turn for the ill.(Incorrect Word)

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Parts of the following sentence have been underlined and given as options. Select the option that contains an error. My relatives shall have reached Amritsar by now.

‘Shall’ must be replaced with ‘will’ as we generally use ‘will’ with ‘He/She/It/You/they’ or a noun and ‘shall’ with ‘I’ and ‘we’ only. Hence, ‘will’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Shelley and Keats are great writers, but I prefer the last.

‘The last’ must be replaced with ‘the latter’ as the word ‘latter’ is used to refer to the second of two things or people. Hence, ‘the latter’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Parts of the given sentence have been underlined. One of them contains an error. The underlined parts are given as options with some changes. Select the option that correctly rectifies the error. This car is lesser expensive than the one I had come to buy.

‘Lesser’ is used to indicate something of lower importance or significance & ‘less’ used to indicate a lower amount or degree. Hence, ‘less’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Parts of the following sentence have been underlined and given as options. Select the option that contains an error. To much seriousness hardens the world, pinning it down with rules.

‘To’ must be replaced with ‘too’ as ‘too’ is used to indicate an excessive or more than necessary amount. Hence, ‘too much’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He is the better-looking hero in the entire film industry.

industry.(Correct) (b) He is the good-looking hero than the entire film industry.(Incorrect Degree) (c) He is the best-looking hero more than the entire film industry.(Incorrect Word) (d) He is the good-looking hero in the entire film industry.(Incorrect Degree)

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Select the grammatically correct version of the following sentence. I like my puppies, Mac and Matt, but I like Matt best.

better. (Correct) (b) I like my puppies, Mac and Matt, but I like Matt the best. (Incorrect Degree) (c) I like my puppies, Mac and Matt, but I like Matt much. (Incorrect Degree) (d) I like my puppies, Mac and Matt, but I like Matt most. (Incorrect Degree)

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The current state of the literature / on the efficacy under cognitive-behavioural therapy / for individuals with generalised anxiety disorder / suggests that it is a promising treatment option.

‘Under’ must be replaced with ‘of’. ‘Under’ is used to denote the position of something/somebody at a lower level. ‘Of’ is used to mention the parts or characteristics of something. Hence, ‘on the efficacy of cognitive-behavioural therapy’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Select the grammatically correct version of the following sentence. He was youngest than his brother.

(b) He was youngest to his brother.(Incorrect Degree and Word) (c) He was too young than his brother.(Incorrect Word and Degree) (d) He was young to his brother.(Incorrect Degree and Word)

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

After that long afternoon, / when I quietly entered her room / to hand over the packet to her, / she asked me to sit reluctant

‘Reluctant’ must be replaced with ‘Reluctantly’ as we generally use adverbs to modify or describe verbs(sit). Hence, ‘she asked me to sit reluctantly’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He belted two huge sixers, but / eleven to get of the last two / deliveries was a big ask.

‘Get of’ will be replaced with ‘Get off’ as it means to successfully complete or achieve. It conveys the intended meaning that eleven runs were needed to successfully complete the last two deliveries. Hence, ‘Get off’ will be the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Can you please / pass me that / glittery pen black?

Adjectives should be written before the noun (pen) that is being qualified. The general order of adjectives before a noun is the following: Opinion, Size, Shape, Condition, Age, Colour,Pattern, Origin, Material and Purpose. ‘Glittery’ represents opinion and ‘black’ is the color. Hence, ‘glittery black pen’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Everyone should respect those parents, teachers, and elders.

SSC CGL Tier II (26/10/2023)

‘His’ is used with ‘everybody / everyone / somebody / someone / nobody / no one’ if the gender is unknown. Similarly, the given sentence talks about every single person, both male and female. Hence, ‘respect his’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

At night, lying sleepless, he considered / sending messengers besides the country, / secretly, in search of his friend.

SSC MTS 15/06/2023 (Morning)

The word ‘besides’ must be replaced with ‘beyond’ to refer to something that is on the other side or further away. Hence, 'sending messengers beyond the country' is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The baby's faces are expressionless and / their pupils aren't visible which gives / the appearance of lifelessness and dreadfulness.

SSC MTS 19/06/2023 (Afternoon)

(Baby’s) must be replaced with (babies) as we are referring to the faces of multiple babies. Hence, ‘the babies’ faces are expressionless and’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Two border guards patrolling / the nearby frontier with Georgia have also / been reported missing from Friday night.

SSC MTS 19/06/2023 (Afternoon)

‘From’ must be replaced with ‘since’ as ‘Since’ is used to denote a point of time and for depicting an activity that is happening from a long time like since time immemorial/since ancient times.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Raising temperatures in the / springtime signal plants and / animals to come alive.

SSC MTS 20/06/2023 (Afternoon)

‘Raising’ must be replaced with ‘rising’ as rise means to increase in value and raise means to lift or elevate something. Hence, ‘rising temperature in the’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

What is the / price of this / fancy dress pink?

SSC CHSL 21/03/2023 (4th Shift)

The correct order of adjectives is opinion, size, age, shape, colour, origin, material, purpose. Hence, ‘fancy(opinion) pink(colour) dress’ is the most appropriate answer. SSC CGL 2022 Tier - 2

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He used to reply / that the only place / for which he went / was the town library.

SSC CGL 01/12/2022 (2nd Shift)

‘Where’ means in or to the place or situation mentioned. The given sentence states that the only place where he went was the library. Hence, ‘where he went’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

She is quiet a generous woman / to have donated / such a large amount / for the flood affected people.

SSC CGL 09/12/2022 (1st Shift)

‘Quiet’ means with very little or no noise. Whereas, ‘Quite’ is used for emphasizing something completely. Similarly, ‘quite’ will be used in the given sentence to emphasise the generosity of the woman. Hence, ‘She is quite a generous woman’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Psychology has been / defined the scientific study of / human psyche and behaviour.

SSC CPO 09/11/2022 (Morning)

‘Defined’ will be replaced by ‘Defined as’ because it means to determine or identify the essential qualities or meaning of something. Hence, ‘defined as the scientific study of’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The people living in coastal areas were evacuated by time.

SSC CGL Tier II ( 08/08/2022 )

Phrase ‘By time’ will be replaced by ‘On time’ as both the phrases look similar but have different meanings. ‘On time’ means at a specific time and ‘By time’ means at the time. Hence, ‘On time’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Open your books at page tenth.

SSC CGL Tier II ( 08/08/2022 )

'Tenth’ must be replaced with ‘Ten’ as the word ‘Tenth’ is used to denote the position of something and the word ‘Ten’ is used to denote the number. Hence, ‘page ten’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

My friend Jatin usually wears a spectacle.

SSC MTS 19/07/2022 (Morning)

Some things are always written in pairs such as a pair of binoculars, a pair of scissors, a pair of spectacles, etc. Similarly, the given sentence talks about wearing spectacles. Hence, ‘a pair of spectacles’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Me and my friends / often go / to the cinema / together.

SSC CHSL 06/06/2022 (Afternoon)

We always put the second person before the first person in a positive sentence according to the order of pronouns. Similarly, in the given sentence, narrator(I) is the first person & his ‘friends’ is the second person. Hence, ‘My friends & I’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

We stayed / in Jim’s flat / during he was / on holiday.

SSC CGL 11/04/2022 (Afternoon)

‘When’ is used for talking about the time at which something happens or happened. The given sentence talks about the time at which Jim was on holiday. Hence, ‘when he was’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

This question / is quite too / simple for me / to answer.

SSC CGL 13/04/2022 (Morning)

The use of ‘quite’ is irrelevant in the grammatical context of the given sentence as ‘too…to’ is a fixed pair. Hence, ‘is too simple for me to answer’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

We bought / two dozens / mangoes from / the market

SSC CGL 20/04/2022 (Evening)

We never write ‘dozens’ if we are using a numerical amount like two, three, etc. before it. For example, ‘two dozens of bananas’ is incorrect but ‘three dozen of mangoes’ is correct. Similarly, the given sentence has ‘two’ as a numerical value. Hence, ‘two dozen’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

His son-in-laws / have enhanced / his business / within a short period.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

We can never write ‘in-laws’ because it is incorrect to add ‘s’ in the suffix(of law). However, we generally write son-in-law for a single male and sons-in-law for more than one male. Similarly, the given sentence talks about two males. Hence, ‘His sons-in-law’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Mr. Choudhri goes to fly to Germany and France next weekend.

SSC MTS 14/10/2021 (Morning)

The given sentence talks about a future action(next weekend), . The structure ‘is going to’ is generally used for future actions. Hence, ‘Mr. Choudhri is going to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

There is no one else in this house; I can feel the presence.

SSC MTS 22/10/2021 (Morning)

If one can feel the presence, it is obvious that there is someone present. Hence, ‘no one’ will be replaced with ‘someone’ to make the given sentence grammatically correct.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The little baby cried loudly to a new toy.

SSC MTS 22/10/2021 (Evening)

‘Cry for something’ is a phrase that means to express a want or need through crying. Similarly in the given sentence, the child is expressing his need for the toy through crying. Hence, ‘for a toy’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

This is the place here Sudhir found the wallet full of money.

SSC MTS 26/10/2021 (Afternoon)

‘Where’ means in or to what place or position. The given sentence talks about a place where Sudhir found the wallet full of money. Hence, ‘where’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The government has announced a gradual reboot of air travel who was halted two months ago due to lockdown.

SSC CHSL 16/04/2021 (Morning)

Replace “who” with “which”. In the given sentence, the halting of air travel due to lockdown was specific. Hence, ‘which was halted’ is the most appropriate structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

A probe has been ordered / by the incident / that occurred at the celebrations.

SSC CHSL 05/08/2021 (Morning)

‘Probe into’ a correct phrase meaning(To begin inquiring into or investigating something). The correct sentence will be as follows: A probe has been ordered into the incident that occurred at the celebrations.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Notwithstanding we were / all busy that weekend / we had to / cancel the outing.

SSC CHSL 06/08/2021 (Morning)

“Notwithstanding” means “despite or in spite of something” . It is used to indicate an aspect of contrast. So, ‘Notwithstanding’ will be replaced by ‘as’ to make the sentence grammatically correct.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

Every participant gave so outstanding performance that it became difficult to choose the winner.

SSC CHSL 06/08/2021 (Evening)

Such is used for emphasizing the degree of something. The given sentence tells about a performance of outstanding degree. Hence, ‘so outstanding performance’ will be replaced by ‘such an outstanding performance’ to grammatically correct the given sentence.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

She speaks / very highly / of both her / daughter-in-laws.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

We can never write ‘-in-laws’ because adding ‘s’ in the suffix(in-law) is wrong. However, we write daughter-in-law for a single female and daughters-in-law for more than two females. Similarly, the given sentence talks about two daughters-in-law. Hence, ‘daughters-in-law’ is the most appropriate structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

He is over eighty and dare not read without glasses.

SSC CPO 25/11/2020 (Evening)

Dare means to challenge someone for something. According to the context of the sentence, we have to show the inability of the person to see and for ability/inability, we will use ‘can’ and not dare. Hence, ‘cannot read’ will be the correct sentence structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Correct word choice

The committee (1)/ turned down (2)/ the proposal (3)/ without stating the concerns out. (4)

Graduate Level 25/07/2025 (Shift - 3)

‘Out’ is not required in this sentence, therefore it must be removed. Hence, ‘without stating the concerns’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Redundancy — remove the unnecessary word

Identify the error in the sentence. Mount Everest is more highest peak in the world.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

In the given sentence, the word “highest” is already a superlative, so using “more” is redundant. Therefore, the correct sentence is “Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world.”

Word Usage & Idioms

Redundancy — remove the unnecessary word

Where can I find / a good Chinese / restaurant about here?

‘About’ will be removed. ‘About’ is not needed. Hence, ‘restaurant here’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Redundancy — remove the unnecessary word

Eddie just panics / when it gets close / nearer the end.

SSC MTS 14/06/2023 (Morning)

‘Nearer’ must be removed as the phrase ‘close’ and ‘nearer’ convey the same meaning of proximity or nearness. Hence, ‘close to the end’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Redundancy — remove the unnecessary word

The novice programmer made (1) / a blunder mistake (2) / in the coding, which (3) / crashed the entire system. (4)

SSC CGL 25/09/2025 (Shift 3)

‘Blunder mistake’ is a superfluous expression. ‘Blunder’ means a huge mistake. So, we cannot use ‘mistake’ and ‘blunder’ together. Therefore, ‘mistake’ will be removed. Hence, ‘a blunder’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

He repeated again (1) / the instructions (2) / so everyone could (3) / understand clearly. (4)

Matriculation Level 25/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

In the given sentence, the use of the word ‘again’ is superfluous and should be removed. The verb ‘repeated’ already means said again. Hence, ‘He repeated’ is the most appropriate usage.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

The manager pointed out (1) / the mistake out (2) / during the meeting (3) / yesterday. (4)

Matriculation Level 26/07/2025 (Shift - 1)

In part (2), ‘out’ must be removed because it is already part of the phrasal verb ‘point out’. Hence, ‘the mistake’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

She forbade / him not / to enter that / room.

‘Not’ must be removed from this sentence. ‘Forbade’ is the past form of ‘forbid’, which means to not allow someone to do something. The use of ‘not’ with ‘forbade’ is superfluous. Hence, ‘forbade him to’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

The project was completed / more quicker / than expected

We don’t use ‘more or very’ with the comparative degree because it becomes a case of superfluousness (not necessary). ‘More’ will be removed from the given sentence . Hence ‘quicker’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

When he resigned, / the company offered him / a huge sum of money but / he refused to agree to it.

The use of the verb ‘agree’ after ‘refused’ is superfluous. ‘Refuse’ means to not agree to accept something. The phrase ‘to agree to it’ must be replaced with ‘offer’. Hence, ‘he refused the offer’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

My father is comparatively better today.

‘Better’ is the comparative degree of ‘good’. The use of ‘comparatively’ with ‘better’ is superfluous, so it will be removed. Hence, ‘better’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

A man who has been accused of fraud / in an earlier job, he will never be / welcome in any other organisation.

‘A man’ is already mentioned as a subject of this sentence. We cannot use ‘he’ in the sentence as it becomes the case of superfluousness(not necessary). Therefore, ‘he’ must be removed from the sentence. Hence, ‘in an earlier job, will never be’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

Henry is known / as an excellent writer / and good communicator/in English.

Use of the adjective 'good' is superfluous in this sentence as there is already an adjective(excellent) which qualifies the meaning of both the nouns, 'writer' and 'communicator'. Therefore, 'good' must be removed. Hence, 'and communicator' is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

I can't talk right now. / I am being really busy. / I'll call you later.

Use of ‘being’ is superfluous as we need to use only simple present tense in the given sentence. Hence, ‘I am really busy’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

Today, in fit of frenzied rage and / jealousy, you would have / killed me, your brother.

SSC CHSL 09/03/2023 (2nd Shift)

We will not write ‘frenzied’ with ‘rage’ as they both nearly have the same meanings which leads to a case of superfluousness(exceeding more than necessary). Hence, ‘frenzied’ will be removed from the sentence & ‘Today, in a fit of rage’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

If conventional arrangements and / patterns are made more scarcer, other / arrangements and patterns will spring up.

SSC CHSL 13/03/2023 (1st Shift)

Whenever we do a comparison between two things or people we don’t use ‘more or very’ with the comparative degree adjective(‘scarcer’ in the given sentence) because it becomes a case of superfluousness(not necessary). Hence, ‘more’ will be removed from the given sentence & ‘patterns are made scarcer’ becomes the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

I will spend / my rest of remaining / life in my / native village.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

We cannot use ‘rest’ & ‘remaining’ together in a sentence as it becomes the case of superfluousness(not necessary). Hence, ‘remaining’ will be removed from the sentence & ‘the rest of my life’ is the most appropriate answer.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

Your name / precedes before / mine / in the list.

SSC CGL Tier II (29/01/2022)

We cannot write ‘precedes’ and ‘before’ together in a sentence as they have similar meanings & that will become a case of superfluousness(not necessary). Hence, ‘before’ must be removed from the sentence to make it grammatically correct.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

Parul is / ten years / elder than / her sibling.

SSC CPO Tier II (26/07/2021)

The comparative degree ‘elder’ will not be used with ‘than’ because it will become a case of superfluousness(not necessary). Hence, ‘than’ will be replaced with ‘to’ and ‘elder to’ is the most appropriate structure.

Word Usage & Idioms

Superfluous word — already implied by the verb

The officer has issued an order to arrest him immediately.

SSC Stenographer 07/08/2025 (Shift 1)

The sentence is grammatically correct.

No Error

Sentence is already correct — No error