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Word usage

Q.No: 1
Test Name : CAT Paper 2005
In each questions, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.

Near

A
I got there just after you left - a near miss!
B
She and her near friend left early.
C
The war led to a near doubling of oil prices.
D
They came near to tears seeing the plight of the victims.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Q.No: 2
Test Name : CAT Paper 2005
In each questions, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.

Hand

A
I have my hand full, I cannot do it today.
B
The minister visited the jail to see the breach at first hand
C
The situation is getting out of hand here!
D
When the roof of my house was blown away, he was willing to lend me a hand.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Q.No: 3
Test Name : CAT Paper 2005
In each questions, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.

For

A
He has a great eye for detail.
B
We are waiting for the day.
C
I can’t bear for her to be angry.
D
It couldn’t be done for ever
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Q.No: 4
Test Name : CAT Paper 2007

Directions for Questions 66 to 68: In each question, there are four sentences. Each sentence has pairs of words/phrases that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted word(s)/phrase(s), select the most appropriate word(s)/phrase(s) to form correct sentences. Then, from the options given, choose the best one.


The cricket council that was [A] / were [B] elected last March is [A] are [B] at sixes and sevens over new rules.
The critics censored [A] / censured [B] the new movie because of its social unacceptability.
Amit’s explanation for missing the meeting was credulous [A] / credible [B].
She coughed discreetly [A] / discretely [B] to announce her presence.

A
BBAAA
B
AAABA
C
BBBBA
D
AABBA
E
BBBAA
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
AABBA
Cricket Council is a collective noun so it takes a singular verb. The reference is made to a group as a whole and not to an individual.
Censure implies harsh criticism.
Censor means to put a ban on something objectionable. Credible means capable of being believed.
Credulous means tending to believe without evidence. Discretely means distinct whereas discreetly means to carefully avoid social embarrassment or distress; tactful.
Q.No: 5
Test Name : CAT Paper 2007

Directions for Questions 66 to 68: In each question, there are four sentences. Each sentence has pairs of words/phrases that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted word(s)/phrase(s), select the most appropriate word(s)/phrase(s) to form correct sentences. Then, from the options given, choose the best one.


The further [A] / farther [B] he pushed himself, the more disillusioned he grew.
For the crowds it was more of a historical [A] / historic [B] event; for their leader, it was just another day.
The old man has a healthy distrust [A] / mistrust [B] for all new technology.
This film is based on a real [A] / true [B] story.
One suspects that the compliment [A] / complement [B] was backhanded.

A
BABAB
B
ABBBA
C
BAABA
D
BBAAB
E
ABABA
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
ABABA
Farther is used specifically for physical distance. Further is not used in the physical context and is used to indicate something of a greater degree or extent. Historical is something pertaining to history while historic is something significant.
Distrust means having a sense of fear anticipation of discomfort of danger whereas mistrust is believing that a particular party has a hidden agenda.
True means not false or not fictional while real means existing or occurring in the physical world.
Compliment means a remark or an act expressing respect or admiration
Complement means a person or thing that completes something
Q.No: 6
Test Name : CAT Paper 2007

Directions for Questions 66 to 68: In each question, there are four sentences. Each sentence has pairs of words/phrases that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted word(s)/phrase(s), select the most appropriate word(s)/phrase(s) to form correct sentences. Then, from the options given, choose the best one.


Regrettably [A] / Regretfully [B] I have to decline your invitation.
I am drawn to the poetic, sensual [A] / sensuous [B] quality of her paintings.
He was besides [A] / beside [B] himself with rage when I told him what I had done.
After brushing against a stationary [A] / stationery [B] truck my car turned turtle.
As the water began to rise over [A] / above [B] the danger mark, the signs of an imminent flood were clear.

A
BAABA
B
BBBAB
C
AAABA
D
BBAAB
E
BABAB
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
BBBAB
Regretfully would refer to the subject ‘I’
Sensual is more related to sense organs (bodily) Sensuous is aesthetically appealing to the senses. Beside oneself means overwhelmed
For example: Beside oneself with grief Stationary means something that is at rest Stationery means any writing material
‘Over’ refers to a more symbolic sense whereas ‘above’ confirms with the idea of crossing the physical mark.
Q.No: 7
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 55 to 58: In each question, there are five sentences. Each sentence has a pair of words that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted words, select the most appropriate words (A or B) to form correct sentences. The sentences are followed by options that indicate the words, which may be selected to correctly complete the set of sentences. From the options given, choose the most appropriate one.


Anita wore a beautiful broach (A)/brooch (B) on the lapel of her jacket.
If you want to complain about the amenities in your neighbourhood, please meet your councillor(A)/counsellor(B).
I would like your advice(A)/advise(B) on which job I should choose.
The last scene provided a climactic(A)/climatic(B) ending to the film.
Jeans that flair(A)/flare(B) at the bottom are in fashion these days.

A
BABAA
B
BABAB
C
BAAAB
D
ABABA
E
BAABA
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
In option (1) Anita wore a brooch is the correct option. As broach means to mention and suggest for the first time. While brooch means a clasp or an ornament. In the second sentence one has to meet a councillor to complain about neighbourhood amenities as a councillor draws from the word council - which is responsible for keeping the county in order. A counsellor is one who helps you take an informed decision about one or more of your concerns, therefore councillor is the right option here. In the third sentence advice has to take the noun form and not the verb form, therefore advice is the right option. When Mr. Raymond advises people, he gives them advice. Climactic refers to climax, while climatic to weather conditions, therefore climactic is the right option. Flair refers to a natural talent; it is commonplace to say that one has a flair for writing. Flare means to spread gradually outward, as the end of a trumpet, the bottom of a wide skirt, or the sides of a ship. Therefore, BAAAB (3) is the right option.
Q.No: 8
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 55 to 58: In each question, there are five sentences. Each sentence has a pair of words that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted words, select the most appropriate words (A or B) to form correct sentences. The sentences are followed by options that indicate the words, which may be selected to correctly complete the set of sentences. From the options given, choose the most appropriate one.


The cake had lots of currents(A)/currants(B) and nuts in it.
If you engage in such exceptional(A)/exceptionable(B) behaviour, I will be forced to punish you.
He has the same capacity as an adult to consent(A)/assent(B) to surgical treatment.
The minister is obliged (A)/compelled(B) to report regularly to a parliamentary board.
His analysis of the situation is far too sanguine(A)/genuine(B).

A
BBABA
B
BBAAA
C
BBBBA
D
ABBAB
E
BABAB
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Currents refer to prevailing or flowing, while currants are deciduous shrubs; therefore B is the right option. In the second sentence, exceptional means unusual or extraordinary. While, exceptionable means objectionable. Assent means to concur to or subscribe to. While consent means to agree, comply or yield. In the third sentence obliged refers to bind morally or legally, as by a promise or contract. While, compelled refers to being forced. Therefore, A is the correct option. Sanguine refers to being cheerfully optimistic, ‘far too’ in the sentence provides the cue to choose option A. While genuine refers to authenticity and is usually not used with far too. Therefore BBAAA (2) is the right option.
Q.No: 9
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 55 to 58: In each question, there are five sentences. Each sentence has a pair of words that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted words, select the most appropriate words (A or B) to form correct sentences. The sentences are followed by options that indicate the words, which may be selected to correctly complete the set of sentences. From the options given, choose the most appropriate one.


She managed to bite back the ironic(A)/caustic(B) retort on the tip of her tongue.
He gave an impassioned and valid(A)/cogent(B) plea for judicial reform.
I am not adverse(A)/averse(B) to helping out.
The coupé(A)/coup(B) broke away as the train climbed the hill.
They heard the bells peeling(A)/pealing(B) far and wide.

A
BBABA
B
BBBAB
C
BAABB
D
ABBAA
E
BBBBA
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Caustic refers to severely critical or sarcastic, while ironic draws from irony which refers to the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. Therefore B is the correct option. Cogent refers to clear, or an incisive presentation. While valid refers to being sound. And, being impassionate usually does not necessitate being valid. Averse means having a strong feeling of opposition, or antipathy. While adverse refers to something being unfavourable. Therefore B is the correct option. Coup is a clever action or accomplishment. A coupé is the end compartment in a European railroad car. Therefore, A is the correct option. Peal refers to a ringing of a set of bells, especially a change or set of changes rung on bells. While, peel refers to that which is peeled from something, as a piece of the skin or rind of a fruit. Therefore, B is the right option. Therefore, BBBAB (2) is the right option.
Q.No: 10
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 55 to 58: In each question, there are five sentences. Each sentence has a pair of words that are italicized and highlighted. From the italicized and highlighted words, select the most appropriate words (A or B) to form correct sentences. The sentences are followed by options that indicate the words, which may be selected to correctly complete the set of sentences. From the options given, choose the most appropriate one.


We were not successful in defusing(A)/diffusing(B) the Guru's ideas.
The students baited(A)/bated(B) the instructor with irrelevant questions.
The hoard(A)/horde(B) rushed into the campus.
The prisoner's interment(A)/internment(B) came to an end with his early release.
The hockey team could not deal with his unsociable(A)/unsocial(B) tendencies.

A
BABBA
B
BBABB
C
BABAA
D
ABBAB
E
AABBA
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Defusing means to remove the fuse from a bomb, mine etc. Diffuse means to spread or scatter widely or disseminate. Therefore B is the right option. Baited means to entice, especially by trickery or strategy. While, bated means to lessen or diminish; abate. Therefore, A is the right option. In sentence three hoard refers to a supply or accumulation that is hidden or carefully guarded for preservation. While, horde refers to a large group, mass or crowd. Therefore B is the correct option. In sentence four interment refers to burial, while internment refers to restrict to or confine within prescribed limits. Therefore B is the correct option. In sentence five unsociable refers to showing, or marked by a disinclination to friendly social relations; withdrawn and unsocial comes close in meaning to unsociable and is used more specifically when talking about predispositions or tendencies. Therefore, your answer choice should have corresponded with the options in the previous sentences treating these two words as synonyms. Therefore BABBA (1) is the correct answer.
Q.No: 11
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 59 to 62: In each of the questions, a word has been used in sentences in five different ways. Choose the option corresponding to the sentence in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.


Run

A
I must run fast to catch up with him.
B
Our team scored a goal against the run of play.
C
You can't run over him like that.
D
The newly released book is enjoying a popular run.
E
This film is a run-of-the-mill production.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
In Sentence 3 'run over' as a phrasal verb means being physically mowed down and it is not appropriate to convey the symbolic sense of brow beating somebody.
Q.No: 12
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 59 to 62: In each of the questions, a word has been used in sentences in five different ways. Choose the option corresponding to the sentence in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.


Round

A
The police fired a round of tear gas shells.
B
The shop is located round the corner.
C
We took a ride on the merry-go-round.
D
The doctor is on a hospital round.
E
I shall proceed further only after you come round to admitting it.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Sentence 4 is incorrect and should be ‘ The doctor is on a round/the doctor is on a round of the hospital.’
Q.No: 13
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 59 to 62: In each of the questions, a word has been used in sentences in five different ways. Choose the option corresponding to the sentence in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.


Buckle

A
After the long hike our knees were beginning to buckle.
B
The horse suddenly broke into a buckle.
C
The accused did not buckle under police interrogation.
D
Sometimes, an earthquake can make a bridge buckle.
E
People should learn to buckle up as soon as they get into a car.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The expression ‘the horse suddenly broke into a buckle’ is idiomatically incorrect
Q.No: 14
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 59 to 62: In each of the questions, a word has been used in sentences in five different ways. Choose the option corresponding to the sentence in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate.


File

A
You will find the paper in the file under C.
B
I need to file an insurance claim.
C
The cadets were marching in a single file.
D
File your nails before you apply nail polish.
E
When the parade was on, a soldier broke the file.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
In sentence 5, the expression ‘…a soldier broke the file…’ is grammatically incorrect.
Q.No: 15
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 63 to 66: Each of the following questions has a sentence with two blanks. Given below each question are five pairs of words. Choose the pair that best completes the sentence.


The genocides in Bosnia and Rwanda, apart from being mis-described in the most sinister and _________ manner as ‘ethnic cleansing’, were also blamed, in further hand-washing rhetoric, on something dark and interior to __________ and perpetrators alike.

A
innovative; communicator
B
enchanting; leaders
C
disingenuous; victims
D
exigent; exploiters
E
tragic; sufferers
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The word ‘disingenuous’ means insincere and is suitable in the given context (suggested by the word- ‘sinister’) . The word ‘victims’ brings out the contrast with ‘perpetrators’ most aptly.



Q.No: 16
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 63 to 66: Each of the following questions has a sentence with two blanks. Given below each question are five pairs of words. Choose the pair that best completes the sentence.


As navigators, calendar makers, and other __________ of the night sky accumulated evidence to the contrary, ancient astronomers were forced to __________ that certain bodies might move in circles about points, which in turn moved in circles about the earth.

A
scrutinizers; believe
B
observers; agree
C
scrutinizers; suggest
D
observers; concede
E
students; conclude
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
In the first blank the word ‘scrutinizers’ is inappropriate as the context suggests observation and not analysis, therefore ‘observers’ is the right word. In the second blank ‘concede’ would be more appropriate than ‘agree’ as the sense is that of yielding ground as suggested by the expression ‘forced to…’
Q.No: 17
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 63 to 66: Each of the following questions has a sentence with two blanks. Given below each question are five pairs of words. Choose the pair that best completes the sentence.


Every human being, after the first few days of his life, is a product of two factors: on the one hand, there is his __________ endowment; and on the other hand, there is the effect of environment, including _____

A
constitutional; weather
B
congenital; education
C
personal; climate
D
economic; learning
E
genetic; pedagogy
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The best option is 2 (congenital, education) as the word ‘environment’ in the sentence is used figuratively to suggest the overall surroundings/conditions which shape a person. Option 3 seems close but is incorrect as the word ‘climate’ is insufficient to convey this figurative sense of environment.
Q.No: 18
Test Name : CAT Paper 2008

Directions for Questions 63 to 66: Each of the following questions has a sentence with two blanks. Given below each question are five pairs of words. Choose the pair that best completes the sentence.


Exhaustion of natural resources, destruction of individual initiative by governments, control over men’s minds by central _______ of education and propaganda are some of the major evils which appear to be on the increase as a result of the impact of science upon minds suited by __________ to an earlier kind of world.

A
tenets; fixation
B
aspects; inhibitions
C
institutions; inhibitions
D
organs; tradition
E
departments; repulsion
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
66. 4 Going by the first blank, option (3) and (4) are close. In the second blank the context requires a word which goes along with the sense of ‘minds’ which are accustomed to the former or the old school of thought and hence the word ‘tradition’ aptly fits in here.
Q.No: 19
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Directions for questions 51 to 55: Answer the questions based on the following information.
For the word given at the top of each table, match the dictionary definitions on the left (A, B, C, D) with their corresponding usage on the right (E, F, G, H). Out of the four possibilities given in the boxes below the table, select the one that has all the definitions and their usages correctly matched.


A

B

C

D

Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A–H: Here ‘exceed’ would mean ‘flowing beyond’ the ‘banks’ (physical boundaries).
B–F: Here their accomplishments ‘were superior to’ the expectation.
C–E: It is difficult for us to ‘comprehend’ the infinite mercy of God.
D–G: He ‘crossed limits’ when he embezzled from the fund.
Q.No: 20
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Directions for questions 51 to 55: Answer the questions based on the following information.
For the word given at the top of each table, match the dictionary definitions on the left (A, B, C, D) with their corresponding usage on the right (E, F, G, H). Out of the four possibilities given in the boxes below the table, select the one that has all the definitions and their usages correctly matched.


A

B

C

D

Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A–E: We see smoke and ‘deduce’ that there must be a fire.
B–F: The listener makes all sorts of guesses about the ‘utterance’.
C–G: ‘You’ can be sure from ‘the long wait’ that the person is definitely inclined to meet ‘him’.
D–H: She had distanced herself from the debate but for a perfunctory question, thereby ‘hinting’ that she was not exactly excited by the debate.
Q.No: 21
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Directions for questions 51 to 55: Answer the questions based on the following information.
For the word given at the top of each table, match the dictionary definitions on the left (A, B, C, D) with their corresponding usage on the right (E, F, G, H). Out of the four possibilities given in the boxes below the table, select the one that has all the definitions and their usages correctly matched.


A

B

C

D

Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A–G: The wines have been preserved for a long time so as to ‘age’ it.
B–E: He has been “freed from the rashness of youth” in his old age.
C–H: The soil in the Gangetic plains are ‘rich’ with the flow of time.
D–F: The violin tunes were ‘rich and pleasant’.
Q.No: 22
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Directions for questions 51 to 55: Answer the questions based on the following information.
For the word given at the top of each table, match the dictionary definitions on the left (A, B, C, D) with their corresponding usage on the right (E, F, G, H). Out of the four possibilities given in the boxes below the table, select the one that has all the definitions and their usages correctly matched.


A

B

C

D

Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A–F: The author felt “light after removing something distressing ‘shoes’
B–H: The victims were given relief ‘aid’.
C–G: The only ‘diversion’ I get is by playing cards. D–E: The sentry was ‘released from the performance of duty’.
Q.No: 23
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Directions for questions 51 to 55: Answer the questions based on the following information.
For the word given at the top of each table, match the dictionary definitions on the left (A, B, C, D) with their corresponding usage on the right (E, F, G, H). Out of the four possibilities given in the boxes below the table, select the one that has all the definitions and their usages correctly matched.


A

B

C

D

Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A–F: The committee heard his attempt to “remove the stigma” from his name.
B–H: Water had to be purified of “foreign/superfluous” ingredients by distillation.
C–E: The opposition was “gotten rid of” after the coup.
D-G: Drugs that empty the bowels have a bad effect on the brain.
Q.No: 24
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Direction for questions 66 to 70: For each of the words below, a contextual usage is provided. Pick the word from the alternatives given that is most inappropriate in the given context.

Specious: A specious argument is not simply a false one but one that has the ring of truth.

A
Deceitful
B
Fallacious
C
Credible
D
Deceptive
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
A specious argument sounds true but is actually false. ‘Credible’ has a positive note against the other three choices.
Q.No: 25
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Direction for questions 66 to 70: For each of the words below, a contextual usage is provided. Pick the word from the alternatives given that is most inappropriate in the given context.

Obviate: The new mass transit system may obviate the need for the use of personal cars.

A
Prevent
B
Forestall
C
Preclude
D
Bolster
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
To obviate is to make something unnecessary, this meaning is elucidated in (a), (b) and (c). ‘Bolster’ on the other hand strengthens the cause of driving personal cars.
Q.No: 26
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Direction for questions 66 to 70: For each of the words below, a contextual usage is provided. Pick the word from the alternatives given that is most inappropriate in the given context.

Disuse: Some words fall into disuse as technology makes objects obsolete.

A
Prevalent
B
Discarded
C
Obliterated
D
Unfashionable
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Easy. (b) (c) and (d) actually mean something that is no longer in use. (a) talks about prevailing practices.
Q.No: 27
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Direction for questions 66 to 70: For each of the words below, a contextual usage is provided. Pick the word from the alternatives given that is most inappropriate in the given context.

Parsimonious: The evidence was constructed from very parsimonious scraps of information.

A
Frugal
B
Penurious
C
Thrifty
D
Altruistic
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Parsimonious means being stingy. Choices (a), (b) and (c) are similar making choice (d) the answer.
Q.No: 28
Test Name : CAT Paper 2001
Direction for questions 66 to 70: For each of the words below, a contextual usage is provided. Pick the word from the alternatives given that is most inappropriate in the given context.

Facetious: When I suggested that war is a method of controlling population, my father remarked that I was being facetious.

A
Jovian
B
Jovial
C
Jocular
D
Joking
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
To say that war is a remedy for the burgeoning population problem is to speak flippantly. (b), (c) and (d) convey this light tone. Jovian relates to the planet Jupiter.
Q.No: 29
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (L)
DIRECTIONS for Questions 41 to 45: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4 Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Bundle

A
The newborn baby was a bundle of joy for the family.
B
Mobile operators are offering a bundle of additional benefits.
C
He made a bundle in the share market.
D
It was sheer luck that brought a bundle of boy-scouts to where I was lying wounded.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
bundle of boy-scouts is incorrect usage. The correct usage is a group of boy-scouts.
Q.No: 30
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (L)
DIRECTIONS for Questions 41 to 45: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4 Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Distinct

A
He is distinct about what is right and what is wrong.
B
Mars became distinct on the horizon in the month of August.
C
The distinct strains of Ravi’s violin could be heard above the general din.
D
Ghoshbabu’s is a distinct case of water rising above its own level
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
He is clear about what is would have been a better expression. The correct usage is “clear” about certain things.
Q.No: 31
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (L)
DIRECTIONS for Questions 41 to 45: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4 Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Implication

A
Everyone appreciated the headmaster’s implication in raising flood relief in the village.
B
This letter will lead to the implication of several industrialists in the market scam.
C
Several members of the audience missed the implication of the minister’s promise.
D
Death, by implication, is the only solution the poem offers the reader.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
appreciated the headmaster’s gesture of raising is the correct expression, implication implies negativity.
Q.No: 32
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (L)
DIRECTIONS for Questions 41 to 45: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4 Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Host

A
If you host the party, who will foot the bill?
B
Kerala’s forests are host to a range of snakes
C
Ranchi will play the host to the next national film festival.
D
A virus has infected the host computer.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Ranchi will play the host to is incorrect. The correct sentence should be ‘Ranchi will host’ the next national film festival.
Q.No: 33
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (L)
DIRECTIONS for Questions 41 to 45: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4 Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Sort

A
What sort of cheese do you use in pizza?
B
Farmers of all sort attended the rally.
C
They serve tea of a sort on these trains.
D
Let’s sort these boys into four groups.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
Farmers of “all sorts” is the correct expression.
Q.No: 34
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (R)
Directions for questions 38 to 42: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Help

A
This syrup will help you cold.
B
I can’t help the colour of my skin.
C
Ranjit may help himself with the beer in the fridge.
D
Do you really expect me to help you out with cash.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The phrase ‘help with the beer’ is incorrect as it should be ‘help to the beer’.
Q.No: 35
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (R)
Directions for questions 38 to 42: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Paper

A
Your suggestions look great on the paper, but are absolutely impractical.
B
Do you know how many trees are killed to make a truckload of paper?
C
So far I have been able to paper over the disagreements among my brothers.
D
Dr. Malek will read a paper on criminalization of politics.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
It’s always ‘suggestions look great on paper’.
Q.No: 36
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (R)
Directions for questions 38 to 42: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Service

A
Customers have to service themselves at this canteen.
B
It’s a service lift; don’t get into it.
C
I’m not making enough even to service the loan.
D
Jyoti’s husband has been on active service for three months.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
It should be ‘serve themselves’ in stead of ‘service themselves’.
Q.No: 37
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (R)
Directions for questions 38 to 42: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Reason

A
Your stand is beyond all reason.
B
Has she given you any reason for her resignation?
C
There is little reason in your pompous advice.
D
How do you deal with a friend who doesn’t listen to a reason?
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The correct phrase is ‘listen to reason’ and not ‘listen to a reason’.
Q.No: 38
Test Name : CAT Paper 2003 (R)
Directions for questions 38 to 42: In each question, the word at the top of the table is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of the word is INCORRECT or INAPPROPRIATE.

Business

A
I want to do an MBA before going into business.
B
My wife runs profitable business in this suburb.
C
If we advertise we will get twice as much business as we have now.
D
How you spend your money is as much my business as yours.
Answer key/Solution
Solution:
The phrase ‘profitable business’ should be ‘a profitable business’
Solution:

Solution:

Solution:

Solution:
AABBA
Cricket Council is a collective noun so it takes a singular verb. The reference is made to a group as a whole and not to an individual.
Censure implies harsh criticism.
Censor means to put a ban on something objectionable. Credible means capable of being believed.
Credulous means tending to believe without evidence. Discretely means distinct whereas discreetly means to carefully avoid social embarrassment or distress; tactful.

Solution:
ABABA
Farther is used specifically for physical distance. Further is not used in the physical context and is used to indicate something of a greater degree or extent. Historical is something pertaining to history while historic is something significant.
Distrust means having a sense of fear anticipation of discomfort of danger whereas mistrust is believing that a particular party has a hidden agenda.
True means not false or not fictional while real means existing or occurring in the physical world.
Compliment means a remark or an act expressing respect or admiration
Complement means a person or thing that completes something

Solution:
BBBAB
Regretfully would refer to the subject ‘I’
Sensual is more related to sense organs (bodily) Sensuous is aesthetically appealing to the senses. Beside oneself means overwhelmed
For example: Beside oneself with grief Stationary means something that is at rest Stationery means any writing material
‘Over’ refers to a more symbolic sense whereas ‘above’ confirms with the idea of crossing the physical mark.

Solution:
In option (1) Anita wore a brooch is the correct option. As broach means to mention and suggest for the first time. While brooch means a clasp or an ornament. In the second sentence one has to meet a councillor to complain about neighbourhood amenities as a councillor draws from the word council - which is responsible for keeping the county in order. A counsellor is one who helps you take an informed decision about one or more of your concerns, therefore councillor is the right option here. In the third sentence advice has to take the noun form and not the verb form, therefore advice is the right option. When Mr. Raymond advises people, he gives them advice. Climactic refers to climax, while climatic to weather conditions, therefore climactic is the right option. Flair refers to a natural talent; it is commonplace to say that one has a flair for writing. Flare means to spread gradually outward, as the end of a trumpet, the bottom of a wide skirt, or the sides of a ship. Therefore, BAAAB (3) is the right option.

Solution:
Currents refer to prevailing or flowing, while currants are deciduous shrubs; therefore B is the right option. In the second sentence, exceptional means unusual or extraordinary. While, exceptionable means objectionable. Assent means to concur to or subscribe to. While consent means to agree, comply or yield. In the third sentence obliged refers to bind morally or legally, as by a promise or contract. While, compelled refers to being forced. Therefore, A is the correct option. Sanguine refers to being cheerfully optimistic, ‘far too’ in the sentence provides the cue to choose option A. While genuine refers to authenticity and is usually not used with far too. Therefore BBAAA (2) is the right option.

Solution:
Caustic refers to severely critical or sarcastic, while ironic draws from irony which refers to the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. Therefore B is the correct option. Cogent refers to clear, or an incisive presentation. While valid refers to being sound. And, being impassionate usually does not necessitate being valid. Averse means having a strong feeling of opposition, or antipathy. While adverse refers to something being unfavourable. Therefore B is the correct option. Coup is a clever action or accomplishment. A coupé is the end compartment in a European railroad car. Therefore, A is the correct option. Peal refers to a ringing of a set of bells, especially a change or set of changes rung on bells. While, peel refers to that which is peeled from something, as a piece of the skin or rind of a fruit. Therefore, B is the right option. Therefore, BBBAB (2) is the right option.

Solution:
Defusing means to remove the fuse from a bomb, mine etc. Diffuse means to spread or scatter widely or disseminate. Therefore B is the right option. Baited means to entice, especially by trickery or strategy. While, bated means to lessen or diminish; abate. Therefore, A is the right option. In sentence three hoard refers to a supply or accumulation that is hidden or carefully guarded for preservation. While, horde refers to a large group, mass or crowd. Therefore B is the correct option. In sentence four interment refers to burial, while internment refers to restrict to or confine within prescribed limits. Therefore B is the correct option. In sentence five unsociable refers to showing, or marked by a disinclination to friendly social relations; withdrawn and unsocial comes close in meaning to unsociable and is used more specifically when talking about predispositions or tendencies. Therefore, your answer choice should have corresponded with the options in the previous sentences treating these two words as synonyms. Therefore BABBA (1) is the correct answer.

Solution:
In Sentence 3 'run over' as a phrasal verb means being physically mowed down and it is not appropriate to convey the symbolic sense of brow beating somebody.

Solution:
Sentence 4 is incorrect and should be ‘ The doctor is on a round/the doctor is on a round of the hospital.’

Solution:
The expression ‘the horse suddenly broke into a buckle’ is idiomatically incorrect

Solution:
In sentence 5, the expression ‘…a soldier broke the file…’ is grammatically incorrect.

Solution:
The word ‘disingenuous’ means insincere and is suitable in the given context (suggested by the word- ‘sinister’) . The word ‘victims’ brings out the contrast with ‘perpetrators’ most aptly.




Solution:
In the first blank the word ‘scrutinizers’ is inappropriate as the context suggests observation and not analysis, therefore ‘observers’ is the right word. In the second blank ‘concede’ would be more appropriate than ‘agree’ as the sense is that of yielding ground as suggested by the expression ‘forced to…’

Solution:
The best option is 2 (congenital, education) as the word ‘environment’ in the sentence is used figuratively to suggest the overall surroundings/conditions which shape a person. Option 3 seems close but is incorrect as the word ‘climate’ is insufficient to convey this figurative sense of environment.

Solution:
66. 4 Going by the first blank, option (3) and (4) are close. In the second blank the context requires a word which goes along with the sense of ‘minds’ which are accustomed to the former or the old school of thought and hence the word ‘tradition’ aptly fits in here.

Solution:
A–H: Here ‘exceed’ would mean ‘flowing beyond’ the ‘banks’ (physical boundaries).
B–F: Here their accomplishments ‘were superior to’ the expectation.
C–E: It is difficult for us to ‘comprehend’ the infinite mercy of God.
D–G: He ‘crossed limits’ when he embezzled from the fund.

Solution:
A–E: We see smoke and ‘deduce’ that there must be a fire.
B–F: The listener makes all sorts of guesses about the ‘utterance’.
C–G: ‘You’ can be sure from ‘the long wait’ that the person is definitely inclined to meet ‘him’.
D–H: She had distanced herself from the debate but for a perfunctory question, thereby ‘hinting’ that she was not exactly excited by the debate.

Solution:
A–G: The wines have been preserved for a long time so as to ‘age’ it.
B–E: He has been “freed from the rashness of youth” in his old age.
C–H: The soil in the Gangetic plains are ‘rich’ with the flow of time.
D–F: The violin tunes were ‘rich and pleasant’.

Solution:
A–F: The author felt “light after removing something distressing ‘shoes’
B–H: The victims were given relief ‘aid’.
C–G: The only ‘diversion’ I get is by playing cards. D–E: The sentry was ‘released from the performance of duty’.

Solution:
A–F: The committee heard his attempt to “remove the stigma” from his name.
B–H: Water had to be purified of “foreign/superfluous” ingredients by distillation.
C–E: The opposition was “gotten rid of” after the coup.
D-G: Drugs that empty the bowels have a bad effect on the brain.

Solution:
A specious argument sounds true but is actually false. ‘Credible’ has a positive note against the other three choices.

Solution:
To obviate is to make something unnecessary, this meaning is elucidated in (a), (b) and (c). ‘Bolster’ on the other hand strengthens the cause of driving personal cars.

Solution:
Easy. (b) (c) and (d) actually mean something that is no longer in use. (a) talks about prevailing practices.

Solution:
Parsimonious means being stingy. Choices (a), (b) and (c) are similar making choice (d) the answer.

Solution:
To say that war is a remedy for the burgeoning population problem is to speak flippantly. (b), (c) and (d) convey this light tone. Jovian relates to the planet Jupiter.

Solution:
bundle of boy-scouts is incorrect usage. The correct usage is a group of boy-scouts.

Solution:
He is clear about what is would have been a better expression. The correct usage is “clear” about certain things.

Solution:
appreciated the headmaster’s gesture of raising is the correct expression, implication implies negativity.

Solution:
Ranchi will play the host to is incorrect. The correct sentence should be ‘Ranchi will host’ the next national film festival.

Solution:
Farmers of “all sorts” is the correct expression.

Solution:
The phrase ‘help with the beer’ is incorrect as it should be ‘help to the beer’.

Solution:
It’s always ‘suggestions look great on paper’.

Solution:
It should be ‘serve themselves’ in stead of ‘service themselves’.

Solution:
The correct phrase is ‘listen to reason’ and not ‘listen to a reason’.

Solution:
The phrase ‘profitable business’ should be ‘a profitable business’

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