Gateway to SBI Mains: English (Noun)

Noun
Words are divided into different kinds or classes according to the work they do in a sentence.
These kinds or classes are known as Parts of Speech. They are eight in number:
1. Noun
2. Pronoun
3. Verb
4. Adjective
5. Adverb
6. Preposition
7. Conjunction
8. Interjection.
What is noun?
Noun is a word used to name a person, place or thing.
For example:
Rama was an epic king.

Kinds of Noun
1. Common Noun
A common noun is a name given in common to every person or thing of the same class or kind.
For example;
I write with a pen.
The student asked me a few questions.

2. Proper Noun
A proper noun is the name of a particular person or place.
For example:
Ramu is a wise fellow.
Patna lacks basic civic amenities.

Rule: Proper nouns are always written with a capital letter at the beginning.
Incorrect: Earlier the capital of india was in calcutta.
Correct: Earlier the capital of India was in Calcutta.

Rule: Proper nouns are sometimes used as common nouns.

Incorrect: LK Advani is today regarded as Sardar
Patel of India.
Correct: LK Advani is today regarded as the Sardar Patel of India.

Rule: In this case proper nouns are always preceded by articles.

She is a Lata Mangeshkar.
Kalidas is the Shakespeare of India.

3. Collective Noun
A Collective noun is the name of a group of persons or things. For example army, committee,
crowd, fleet, flock, herd, jury, mob, parliament, team.

Rule: A collective noun usually takes a singular verb and is substituted by a singular pronoun.
Incorrect: The jury were unanimous in their opinion.
Correct: The jury was unanimous in its opinion.

Rule: A collective noun takes a plural verb and is substituted by a plural pronoun when the
individuals of which it is composed are thought of net behaving as a single unit
Incorrect: The jury was divided in its opinions.
Correct: The jury were divided in their opinions.

4. Abstract Noun
An abstract noun is usually the name of a quality, action or state considered apart from the
object ( which is usually a common noun and often qualified by an adjective) to which it belongs.
For example:
Innocence is integral to a child.
Love knows no bound.

5. Material Noun
A material noun is the name of a material ( matter from which a thing is made). For example:
Cotton is the source of natural fibre.
Milk constitutes a nutritious food.

Rule: A material noun does not take an article (a, an, the) before it.
Incorrect: The tobacco is a cash crop.
Correct: Tobacco is a cash crop.

Rule: It takes articles when treated as common nouns.

Incorrect: They offered me glass of water.
Correct: They offered me a glass of water.
Numbers
Numbers are of two kinds-
(1) Singular Number
(2) Plural Number
Generally while changing singular noun to plural we add s, es in the end.
For example
cow-cows
chair-chairs
school-schools
Mango-Mangoes
On the surface some nouns appear to be singular but in meaning they are treated as plural.
For example,
cattle, clergy, people, children, police, poultry
Incorrect: The peasantry has always stood as rockstars for the development of a country.
Correct: The peasantry have always stood as rockstars for the development of a country.
Some nouns look like plural but are always used as singular. For example,
Subjects - Mathematics, economics, physics, ethics, politics, classics.

Rule: When these subjects denote qualities or property, they are used in plural sense. For
example,
Incorrect: His mathematics is weak.
Correct: His mathematics are weak.
Diseases - Rickets, AIDS, diabetes, mumps, measles. Some other nouns - News, gallows,
summons, innings.
Some nouns are plural in form and in meaning, normally they are instruments or dress articles
which have two parts and make a kind of pair. Do not use a/an before these nouns.
For example,
Spectacles, tongs, scissors, pincers, bellows, trousers, drawers, breaches, pants, knickers,
pantaloons.
Certain other nouns - caves, riches (valuables), alms, funds, proceeds (profit), annals (record).
Incorrect : I bought a trousers yesterday.
Correct :I bought a pair of trousers yesterday.
Some nouns are always singular and used as singular only. For example Poetry, information,
machinery, dust, furniture, dirt, traffic, money, music. Some nouns have one meaning in singular
form and another in plural.

Quiz based on above concepts :

1. When he returned (a)/ from America, he informed me (b)/ that he had come here (c)/ to do
urgent work. (d)/ No error (e)
2. I do my best (a)/ but I dont understand (b)/ why I do not get expected (c)/ marks in the
examination. (d)/ No error (e)
3. The pretty woman (a)/ sitting in the car (b)/ is the daughter of one of (c)/ the headman of the
village. (d)/ No error (e)
4. You will not be (a)/ allowed to go (b)/ anywhere else to (c)/ play outdoor games. (d)/ No
error (e)
5. The beautiful surrounding (a)/ of the palace (b)/ attracted a large number of (c)/ tourists
coming from abroad. (d)/ No error (e)
6. He did not know (a)/ that the headquarter (b)/ of the army (c)/ was in Delhi. (d)/ No error (e)
7. Liberalisation of economy (a)/ has given birth to (b)/ many uncommon (c)/ phenomenon in the
society.(d)/ No error (e)
8. Thousand of young (a)/ protesters were standing (b)/ at Jantar Mantar and (c)/ supporting
Anna Hazare. (d)/ No error (e)
9. It is very difficult (a)/ to chase (b)/ a huge score in the (c)/ fourth inning. (d)/ No error (e)
10. He gave me (a)/ a five-rupees note (b)/ and asked me to get (c)/ him a few
cigarettes. (d)/ No error (e)

1. e; No error
2. e; No error
3. d; Replace headman with headmen
4. e; No error
5. a; Replace surrounding with surroundings
6. b; Replace headquarter with headquarters
7. d; Replace phenomenon with phenomena
8. a; Replace thousand with thousands
9. d; Replace inning with innings
10. b; Replace rupees with rupee

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Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Verb)

Verb
A Verb is a word that tells or asserts something about a person or thing. It tells about the person
or thing in the state of (a) doing, (b) being or (c) being acted up on. Thus a verb is
a doing or being word.

Kinds of verbs :
Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
A Transitive verb is a verb that denotes an action which passes over from the doer or agent to
an object, Transitive means passing over. For example,
India won the World Cup.

An Intransitive verb is a verb that denotes an action which does not pass over to an object, or
that expresses a state of an object, or that expresses a state of being. Intransitive means not
passing over. For example,
The sun shines brightly.

Rule: When an intransitive verb is used in a causative sense, it becomes transitive.

1. He sat in a chair.
2. He sat me on chair.

Rule: Verbs like, fall, lie, rise and sit are made transitive by a slight change in their spellings.
The transitive is the causative of the corresponding intransitive verb.
Incorrect: The poachers were caught yesterday when they fell trees illegally.
Correct : The poachers were caught yesterday when they felled trees illegally.

Verbs of Incomplete Predication

The intransitive verb which requires something to make the sense complete is called a verb of
incomplete predication.
For example be, become, seem, grow, taste, appear.
That which is required to make the sense (of these verbs) complete is known as the
complement of the verb or the completion of the predicate.
For example,
The family appears.

Rule: When the subjective complement is a noun (or a pronoun), it is in the same case as the
subject, that is, in the nominative case.
For example
The lawyer called the witness a liar.

Rule: When the objective complement is a noun it is in the objective case in agreement with the
object.

Subject-Verb Agreement :
Language has its base in logic and harmony. The subject and the verb are the essential parts of
a sentence. It is imperative that the verb agree with the subject in number and person.

Rule: Two or more singular subjects connected by and usually take a verb in the plural.
Incorrect: Computer and telecommunication has metamorphosed information technology.
Correct: Computer and telecommunication have metamorphosed information technology.

Rule: If two singular nouns refer to the same person or thing, the verb must be singular.
Incorrect : The poet and critic have been honoured.
Correct : The poet and critic has been honoured.

Rule: If two subjects together express one idea, the verb is in the singular.
Incorrect: Bread and butter are essential for one's life.
Correct: Bread and butter is essential for one's life.

Rule: If the singular subjects are preceded by each or every, the verb is usually singular.
Incorrect: Every man and woman in a family are responsible for the upbringing of a child.
Correct: Every man and woman in a family is responsible for the upbringing of a child.

Rule : Two or more singular subjects connected by or, nor, either ... or, neither... nor take a verb
in the singular.
Incorrect: Either Manoj or Madhukar have the key to this problem.
Correct: Either Manoj or Madhukar has the key to this problem.

Rule: When the subjects, joined by or or nor are of different numbers, the verb must be plural,
and the plural subject must be placed next to the verb.
Incorrect : Neither Rekha nor her friends was present at the party.
Correct : Neither Rekha nor her friends were present at the party.

Rule: When the subjects, joined by or or nor are of different persons, the verb agrees in person
with the one nearest to it.
Incorrect : Either she or I pays the fees.
Correct : Either she or I pay the fees.

Error of Proximity: The verb is made to agree in number with a noun near it instead of with its
proper subject. This is wrong and should be avoided.
Incorrect : The behaviour of the students were not proper.
Correct: The behaviour of the students was not proper.

Rule: Words joined to a singular subject by with, as well as, etc. are parenthetical. The verb
should therefore be put in the singular.
Incorrect: The guru as well as his disciples are committed to celibacy.
Correct: The guru as well as his disciples is committed to celibacy.

Rule: Either, neither, each, everyone, many a must be followed by a singular verb.
Incorrect: Many a man have resigned in crisis.
Correct: Many a man has resigned in crisis.

Rule: When a plural noun denotes some specific quantity or amount considered as a whole, the
verb is generally singular.
Incorrect: Five hours are too short a time to judge one's character.
Correct: Five hours is too short a time to judge one's character.

The Infinitive
Usually a verb is limited by the number and person of its subject.
For example,
He plays cricket.
They play cricket.
A verb, which is not limited by person and number as a verb that has a subject, is called the
verb infinite or the infinitive. Infinitives are of two kinds.
(1) Simple Infinitive and
(2) Gerundial or Qualifying Infinitive.

(1) Simple Infinitive - when the infinitive is used like a noun.

(i) as the subject of a verb. To name is to give an identity.
(ii) as the object of a verb. I have decided to leave the place.
(iii) as the complement of a verb. Her hobby is to dance.
(iv) as the object of a preposition. He is about to go.
(v) as the complement of the object. She heard her weep.

(2) Gerundial or Qualifying Infinitive-when the infinitive is used for the following purposes:
(i) to qualify a verb. He slept to refresh himself.
(ii) to qualify an adjective. Tea is easy to prepare.
(iii) to qualify a noun. He has a point to make.
(iv) to qualify a sentence. To be very frank, I hate your smile.

Rule: The infinitive is used without to after verbs like help, watch, bid, dare, hear, let, make,
need and see.
Incorrect : I bid him to quit the organisation.
Correct : I bid him quit the organisation.

Rule: If, however, the structure is do + dare or do + need, the infinitive is used with to.
Incorrect: You do not need worry about us.
Correct: You do not need to worry about us.

Rule: The following verbs are followed by the infinitive.

Agree, arrange, attempt, care, cease, consent, decide, determine, endeavour, fall, forget,
hesitate, hope,learn, manage, neglect, prepare, promise, propose, refuse, regret, remember,
seem, swear, undertake.
Incorrect: I agree for helping you out in trouble.
Correct: I agree to help you out in trouble.

Rule: Prepositions but and except take the infinitive without to.
Incorrect: There is no alternative but to help him out.
Correct : There is no alternative but help him out.

Rule: Expressions would rather, would sooner, rather than, sooner than, had better are followed
by infinitive without to.
Incorrect : I would rather to go for batting.
Correct : I would rather go for batting.

Participle
(1) Present Participle
(2) Past Participle
(3) Perfect Participle

Rule: Present participle is used when all the parts of a sentence have the same subject;
Incorrect: Opened the drawer, he took out his gun.
Correct: Opening the drawer, he took out his gun.
Rule: When a sentence has two different subjects, avoid using present participle. Instead a
clause should be used in such instances.
Incorrect: While going to school, a dog jumped at me.
Correct: While I was going to school, a dog jumped at me.

Rule: Some past participles are used only as adjectives and qualify a noun. They can be used
as past participles with changed spellings. For example, shrunken, drunken, sunken, graven,
molten.
Incorrect: He and his brother have drunken wine last night.
Correct: He and his brother have drunk wine last night.

Rule: Perfect participle is used when one activity is completely over. Having worked hard, he
felt tired.

Auxiliary Verb
Auxiliary literally means giving help, So an auxiliary verb is one that helps the main verb form
in tenses, moods, voices etc. The following verbs are auxiliaries: is, are, am, was, were, be,
can, could, dare, do, does, did, have, has, had, may, might, must, need, ought, shall, should,
will, would, used to.

1. May implies permission, doubt or possibility.

Ex. May I come in? (permission)
It may rain tonight. (possibility)

2. Might is the past form of may and it implies more doubt than may.
Ex. If the clouds are salted, the rains might come.

3. Can is used to express ability.

Ex. He can do the work.

4. Could is the past form of can but it does not necessarily represent past time. Often it implies
a more uncertain condition.
Ex. He could refuse, but she never does.

5. Should expresses the idea that something must be done or is important.

Should and ought to have similar meanings, but ought is followed by to Ought to has a
more objective force and is used when we are talking about laws, duties and regulations.
Ex. We ought to see her tomorrow.

6. Must is used to give strong advice or orders.

Ex. He really must stop drinking.

7. Do is used to make question and negative forms of ordinary verbs.

Ex. Do you know him?
I dont like swimming.
Do is always used in question-tags.
Ex. You know painting, do you?

Quiz based on above concepts:

Directions: In the following questions, some of the sentences have errors and some have
none. Find out which part of the sentence has an error. If there is no mistake, the answer
is No error.

1. Many a student (a)/ are frustrated (b)/ because of unemployment. (c)/ No error (d)
2. It is true (a)/ that the poor is unable (b)/ to get nourishing food even today. (c)/ No error (d)
3. People have a right to criticise (a)/ but at the same time each of them (b)/ have to remember
his duty also. (c)/ No error (d)
4. The child (a)/ picked up a burned paper (b)/ from the street. (c)/ No error (d)
5. Never did this exhibition of contempt and anger ceased (a)/ so long as British rule
remained (b)/ a live thing in India. (c)/ No error (d)
6. The teacher was angry (a)/ when he found that (b)/ you are not there. (c)/ No error (d)
7. I would like you to (a)/ complete this assignment (b) before you will leave for Mumbai. (c)/ No
error (d)
8. Ordinarily, when in difficulty (a)/ Ruchi prefers keeping her counsel (b)/ than running about
taking advice. (c)/ No error (d)
9. One of the drawbacks (a)/ of modern education are (b)/ that it does not encourage
original thinking. (c)/ No error (d)
10. I enquired of him (a)/ why he is so negligent (b)/ in his studies. (c)/ No error (d)

Answers:

1. b; Replace are with is

Many a takes singular subject and singular verb.
2. b; Replace is with are
Here, poor stands for poor people.
3. c; Replace have with has
4. b; Replace burned with burnt
5. a; Replace ceased with cease
6. c; Replace are with were
7. c; Remove will
8. c; Replace than with to
9. b; Replace are with is

10. b; Replace is with was

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Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Adjective)

ADJECTIVE:

An adjective is a word used with a noun ( or a pronoun) to add something for its meaning. The adjective
may be used

(i) attributively: when it is used along with the noun as an epithet or attribute; for example,
There were dark clouds in the sky.

(ii) predicatively : when it forms part of the predicate; for example.

The clouds in the sky were dark.

Rule : The adjective is correctly used with a verb when some quality of the subject rather than of the
action of the verb, is to be expressed.

Incorrect: Flowers were plucked freshly.

Correct: Flowers were plucked fresh.

Rule: Due to and prior to should be used as predicative adjectives. When prepositional functions are to
be performed, use because of in place of due to, and before in place of prior to.

Incorrect : Wickets fell due to superb bowling.

Correct : Wickets fell because of superb bowling.

Kinds of Adjective

1. Adjective of Quality : Also known as Descriptive Adjective, it shows the kind of quality of a person
or a thing. For example,

He loves her soft skin.

2. Adjective of Quantity : It is an adjective which shows how much of a thing is meant. For example,
There is little sense in it.

3. Adjective of Number : Also known as Numeral Adjective, it shows how many persons or things are
meant, or in what order a person or a thing stands. For example,

The face of a clock has sixty divisions.

Numeral Adjectives are of three kinds:

(i) Definite Numeral Adjective: It denotes an exact number. It may be a cardinal denoting how many; as,
one, two, three, etc. It may be an ordinal denoting the order, as first, second, third etc.
Rule: When a number together with a unit of measurement is to be used as an adjective, it is a compound
word and the unit of measurement is taken in the singular.

Incorrect : It is a twenty-kilometres walk.

Correct : It is a twenty-kilometre walk.

Rule: Definite Numeral Adjective always takes plural countable noun.

Incorrect: When I was in Punjab, I had twenty money.

Correct: When I was in Mumbai, I had twenty rupees.

Rule: If in a sentence one noun is used for all ordinals and the first ordinal has 'the' while, other not, the
noun will be in the plural.

Incorrect: I have read the literature of the seventeenth and eighteenth century.

Correct: I have read the literature of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

(ii) Indefinite Numeral Adjective : It does not denote an exact number. For example. There are many
petitions lying on the tables.

Rule :Many takes plural noun while "Many a/an singular noun.

Incorrect: He has observed many an uncommon phenomena.

Correct: He has observed many an uncommon phenomenon.

Rule : The few is used before plural countable noun and the little before uncountable noun. Both follow a
clause.

Incorrect: I gave the beggar a little coins I had.

Correct: I gave the beggar the few coins I had.

(iii) Distributive Numeral Adjective : It refers to each one of a number. Distributive numeral adjectives
are the same as distributive pronouns (see Pronoun). They only differ in function. For example,

Each time he missed the bus.

4. Demonstrative Adjective : It points out which person or thing is meant. For example,

This table is made of wood.

Rule : The plural forms these and those are often wrongly used with the singular nouns kind and sort.

Incorrect : These kind of clothes are not acceptable.

Correct : This kind of clothes are not acceptable.

5. Interrogative Adjective: When an interrogative pronoun is used with a noun to ask a question, it is
called an interrogative adjective. For example,

What options are available after graduation?

6. Exclamatory adjective: It is used with a noun in-exclamatory sentence. For example,

What a show!

Confusing Words

Later, latter, latest, last: Later and latest refer to time. Latter and last refer to position.

Incorrect: The later part of the novel is not neatly written.

Correct: The latter part of the novel is not neatly written.

Incorrect: What is the last news?

Correct: What is the latest news?

Elder, older, eldest, oldest: Elder and eldest are used of members of the same family. Besides, both of
them are used only attributively (that is, before the noun). Older and Oldest are used in the general sense.

Incorrect : I have an older brother.

Correct : I have an elder brother.. (Since brother is a member of the same family)

Incorrect : Mohan is the eldest boy in the town.

In a town there may be so many families. We are talking of boys in general sense. So eldest should be
replaced by oldest.

Correct : Mohan is the oldest boy in the town.

Degree of Comparison

Degrees are of three kinds.

1. Positive Degree

2. Comparative Degree

3. Superlative Degree

Rule: When a selection is made out of the two, and two is given in the sentence, the is used before the
adjective denoting comparison.

Incorrect: Shikha is better of the two sisters.

Correct: Shikha is the better of the two sisters.

Rule: Preferable takes to and is not preceded by more.

Incorrect: Coffee is more preferable than tea in Brazil.

Correct: Coffee is preferable to tea in Brazil.

Rule: When two adjectives in different degrees of comparison are used in the same sentence, each should
be complete in itself.

Incorrect: My father is as rich if not richer than your mother.

Correct: My father is as rich as if not richer than your mother.

Rule: If two adjectives are connected by and, they should be in the same degree throughout.
Incorrect: Raj is more intelligent and most active.

Correct: Raj is more intelligent and more active.

Rule: The comparative in -er is not used when we compare two qualities of the same person or thing.

Incorrect : Mohan is wiser than strong.

Correct : Mohan is more wise than strong.

Rule: When two objects are compared with each other, the latter term of comparison must exclude the
former.

Incorrect : Satish is cleverer than any student in his class.

Correct : Satish is cleverer than any other student in his class.

Rule: The comparative degree is generally followed by than but the following comparative adjectives are
followed by the preposition to : inferior, superior, prior, anterior, posterior, senior, junior.

Incorrect: India's fielding is inferior than South Africa's.

Correct: India's fielding is inferior to South Africa's.

Rule: Adjectives expressing qualities that do not admit of different degrees cannot be compared.

Incorrect: Our field is more square.

Correct: Our field is square.

Rule: Double comparatives and superlatives are to be avoided.

Incorrect: Zarda mangoes are more sweeter than Maldah ones.

Correct: Zarda mangoes are sweeter than Maldah ones.

Exercise:
Directions: In the following questions, some of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find
out which part of the sentence has an error. The letter corresponding to that part is your answer. If
there is no mistake, the answer is No error.

1. Firstly you should a)/ think over the meaning of the words b)/ and then use them. c)/ No error d)

2. The driver tried his best a)/ to avert the accident by b)/ bringing the car to a suddenly stop. c)/ No
error d)

3. The Sunrise Hotel was a)/ fully equipped to offer b)/ leisure stay c)/ to its clients. d)/ No error e)

4. The technician reminded a)/ them to have a thoroughly cleaning of the b)/ machine after each use.
c)/ No error d)

5. I am much glad a)/ that you have b)/ won the prize. c)/ No error d)

6. My observation is that a)/ between Vivek and Shashi, b)/ Vivek is the most intelligent. c)/ No error d)

7. It very often a)/ happens that b)/ a man who talks most does little. c)/ No error d)

8. From all accounts a)/ I learn that b)/ he is the best and honest member of the new
Cabinet. c)/ No error d)

9. He is a)/ too intelligent b)/ to make a mistake. c)/ No error d)

10. The flood situation this year a)/ is worst than b)/ that prevailed in the last year, c)/ No error d)

Answers :

1. a; Replace Firstly with First

2. c; Replace suddenly with sudden
3. c; Replace leisure with leisurely
4. b; Replace thoroughly with thorough
5. a; Replace much with very
6. c; Replace the most with more
7. c; Replace most by much
8. c; The correct form is he is the best and most honest member....
9. d; No error

10. b; Replace worst with worse

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Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Adverb)
ADVERB:

An adverb is a word which modifies the meaning of a verb, an adjective or an adverb. For
example

Rama runs quickly.

Govinda reads quite clearly.

Kinds of Adverb

(a) According to meaning

1) Adverbs of Time : They are the adverbs which tell us when an action takes place. For
example,

I shall meet you tomorrow.

Rule : Time adverbs cannot be used in the present perfect, instead the past indefinite is used
for them.

Incorrect : I have seen a 3D movie last night.

Correct : I saw a 3D movie last night.

2) Adverbs of Place : They are the adverbs which tell us where an action takes place. For
example,

He left his bag there.

3) Adverbs of Manner : They are the adverbs which tell us how an action takes place or in
what manner. For example, Gautam Buddha left his family stealthily.

4) Adverbs of Frequency : They are the adverbs which tell us how often an action takes place.
For example, The Delhi Police is always with you .
5) Adverbs of Degree or Quantity : They are the adverbs which tell us how much or in what
degree or to what extent. For example,

I have pleaded enough and now I give up.

Rule : The adverb so as an adverb of degree must not be used absolutely.

Incorrect : He is so rich.

Correct : He is very rich.

Rule : That should not be used instead of so as an adverb.

Incorrect : He went only that far.

Correct : He went only so far.

Rule : The adverb too should not be used instead of very or much and vice versa.

Incorrect : She is too intelligent.

Correct : she is very intelligent.

Rule : Much is used with past participles used as adjectives not with present participles.

Incorrect : The match became much interesting.

Correct : The match became very interesting.

Rule : Adverb of degree comes just before the adjective it qualifies.

Incorrect : He too is weak to run.

Correct : He is too weak to run.

They are so honest that they cannot tell a lie.

6) Adverbs of Affirmation and Negation : They are the adverbs which tell us whether an
action is done or not. For example,

He has not left the place.

7) Adverbs of Reason : They are the adverbs which tell us why an action takes place. For
example,

She therefore decided to be a rich woman.

(b) According to use

1) Simple Adverb : It only modifies some words (verb, adjective or an adverb). All the above
examples belong to this category.

2) Interrogative Adverb : It not only modifies some words but also introduces a question. For
example, How did you come here?

3) Relative Adverb : It not only modifies some words but also refers back to some antecedent.
For example,

How can I forget the day when happiness was

showered on me from all sides?

Forms of adverb :

Rule : Adjective should not be used for adverb.

Incorrect: The moon shone bright in the sky.

Correct: The moon shone brightly in the sky.

Rule : Some adverbs have two forms, the form ending in-ly and the form which is the same as
adjective. For example, loud, quick, high, hard, near, late, pretty.
Incorrect: He fought hardly for the No. 1 spot.

Correct: He fought hard for the No. 1 spot.

Similarly, Incorrect: It would hard rain today.

Correct : It would hardly rain today.

Comparison of adverbs :

Rule : If the adverb is of one syllable, the comparative is formed by adding-er and the
superlative by addingest to the positive.

Incorrect : The hare ran more fast than the dog.

Correct : The hare ran faster than the dog.

Rule : Adverbs ending in -ly form the comparative by adding more and the superlative by
adding most.

Incorrect : The petrol price hike issue has been debated hotlier than the urea scam.

Correct : The petrol price hike issue has been debated more hotly than the urea scam.

Position of adverbs :

Rule : Adverbs of manner, place and time are generally placed after the verb or after the object
if there is one.

Incorrect: He wrote last year a book.

Correct: He wrote a book last year.

Rule : When there are two or more adverbs after a verb (and its object), the normal order is;
adverb of manner, adverb of place, adverb of time.

Incorrect: I read the proof yesterday meticulously at home.

Correct: I read the proof meticulously at home yesterday.

Rule : Adverbs of frequency and most of the adverbs of quantity are

i) normally put between the subject and the verb if the verb consists of only one word;

ii) put after the first word if there is more than one word in the verb;

iii) put after the verb if the verb is am/are/is/was/were;

Some more rules :

Rule : Two negatives should not be used in the same sentence unless we wish to make an
affirmation.

Incorrect: she did not despise none of her lovers.

Correct: She did not despise any of her lovers.

Rule : Ever should not be used for never.

Incorrect: She seldom or ever has sweet talks with her son.

Correct: She seldom or never has sweet talks with her son.

Rule : Else should be followed by but.

Incorrect: It is nothing else than fatigue.

Correct: It is nothing else but fatigue.

Rule : Never should not be used for not.

Incorrect: She met her friend after a long time and her friend never recognised her.

Correct: She met her friend after a long time and her friend did not recognise her.

Exercise :
Directions: Find out the error in each of the following sentences, if any. If there is no
error, the answer is d.

1. She behaved in a cowardly manner (a)/ before the headmaster (b)/ and hesitated to do the
work. (c)/ No error (d)

2. The girl refused (a)/ not to (b)/ return the articles. (c)/ No error (d)

3. The real important thing (a)/ of our life is our livelihood (b)/ which discriminates us
from animals. (c)/ No error (d)

4. She is too much beautiful (a)/ so most of the boys (b)/ run after her and want to influence
her. (c)/ No error (d)

5. The taxi driver who had come (a)/ to receive us at (b)/ the airport was speaking fluently
French. (c)/ No error (d)

6. The observers feel that (a)/ the stronger team has to face defeat (b)/ because the players
dont play whole hearted. (c)/ No error (d)

7. Although he is usually (a)/ rude with everyone, (b)/ he behaved nice with all of us today.
(c)/ No error (d)

8. He ran so fastly (a)/ that he reached first and (b)/ realised that he had (c)/ not earned
anything substantial. (d)/ No error (e)

9. In spite of toiling (a)/ very hardly he (b)/ realised that he had not earned anything substantial.
(c)/ No error (d)

10. We were very much (a)/ carefully in our approach (b)/ and hence we would complete the
complicated task. (c) No error (d)

Answers..

1. d; No error
2. b; Omit the word not
3. a; Replace real with really
4. a; Replace too much with very
5. c; Replace fluently French with French fluently
6. c; Replace whole-hearted with whole-heartedly
7. c; Replace nice with nicely
8. a; Replace fastly with fast
9. b; Replace hardly with hard
10. b; Replace carefully with careful Read
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Mission IBPS Exam :Rules of Paragraph Jumbles
(Sentence Re-arrangement)
Dear Readers,
Many of our readers were demanding rules for Sentence Arrangement, considering this here,
we are providing rules of Sentence Arrangements. We are providing you quiz of English which
is one of the most important sections of banking exams, in which you can score maximum with
ease if you are practicing on very regular basis, It is crucial for all the upcoming banking
exams, IBPS/RRB etc.

Parajumbles are in important part of most competitive exams. In various management entrance
exams we have seen 3 basic types of parajumbles:

4 sentence type
5 sentence type
6 sentence type : Usually when there are 6 sentences given, the 1st sentence and the 6th sentence are
given in the correct position and he 4 sentences between these are jumbled up.

Parajumbles are not necessarily a test of your language skills. The good thing about parajumbles is that
even if you are otherwise weak in English, that is if you find RC, vocabulary or grammar a challenge, you
can still score extremely will in parajumbles. This is because you need to be as mechanical as possible in
your approach.

The ideal approach for solving parajumbles is a mechanical one. Most people lose focus by reading the
statements given over and over again. Sometimes, it is next to impossible to make out which sentence
follows which one and all the options look equally correct. The greatest mistake is to try and read the
parajumble in the sequence given in each option. Solving all options completely will only confuse you
and waste a lot of time.

The best way to solve a parajumble is to try and identify mandatory pairs. A mandatory pair is a sequence
that you know cannot exist in any other order. There are many types of mandatory pairs. But there is only
one basic tool to identify mandatory pairs read mechanically and look only for keywords that will help
you form a sequence or connection.

Types of Mandatory Pairs:

1. Names, proper nouns and pronouns:

Sometimes we can identify mandatory pairs or a longer sequence by the help of the names, proper nouns
and pronouns used.

For instance:
A. Both were very angry.
B. Singh accused Jogi of corruption.
C. Raman Singh ordered enquiry against his predecessor Ajit Jogi.

It is clear from the above example that statement C, which has the full names of both persons, should
precede the other two statements. Statement B uses only the second names of the concerned people. And
statement A substitutes the names with the pronoun both. Thus, A should follow B, and B should
follow C. Therefore, the correct order is CBA.
2. Cause-effect:
There are instances where a clear cause- effect relationship may exist in the form of a mandatory pair or
may run through the entire parajumble.

For example:
A. While Sachin is a great batsman, Kamblis name is often associated with scams.
B. Sachin Tendulkar and Vinod Kambli are good friends.
C. As a result, their relationship has become strained.

Here it is easy to see that the use of as a result in statement C, stablishes a cause and effect relationship.
The correct sequence therefore, is BAC.

3. Chronology:
At times you can see logical chain of events in the parajumble. It could also be in the form of a set of
instructions to be followed in a certain order. If you look for keywords associated with the sequence, you
can easily figure out the right order.

For instance:
A. In order to take full advantage of the ongoing city sale you must possess a good credit card.
B. It would also be nice to have friends to accompany you.
C. Secondly, you should have a vehicle of your own.

As you can see in the above example, statement C follow statement A. A gives the first and C gives the
second condition. The use of also in B tells you that it should follow C. Therefore, ACB is the correct
order.

4. Time reference:
Some question have a statement that refers to a point in time. The reference maybe in the past, present or
future. Accordingly, you can decide its place in the sequence.

For example:
A. In the future perhaps, we may live on Mars.
B. During the Stone Age, man lived in caves.
C. Presently, man lives in concrete jungles.

The use of Stone Age in statement B, presently in C and future in A make it easy for us to identify
the sequence. The past will always come first, followed by the present and then the future. The correct
sequence then is, BCA.

5. Obvious openers:
You may sometimes come across statements that are obvious openers, i.e. it is obvious that the
parajumble will begin with those statements. These statements can be definitions, universal truths or
philosophical statements.

For instance:
A. The stratosphere is one of the layers of the atmosphere.
B. It is the upper portion of the atmosphere, a nearly isothermal layer (layer of constant temperature) that
is located above the troposphere.
C. It extends from its lower boundary of about 6 to 17 km (4 to 11miles) altitude to its upper boundary
(the stratopause) at about 50 km (30 miles).
It is clear to see that it in B and C refers to the stratosphere in statement. A. Statement A is thus an
obvious opener and the correct order is ABC.

6. Obvious conclusions:
Sometimes, you can easily figure out the conclusion in the parajumble. The conclusion helps to eliminate
choices or to identify a mandatory pair.

For example:
A. On the mantelpiece were two clocks, some dogs, brass candlesticks and a tinted photograph of Annie.
B. You looked at the weed-grown vegetable garden through a stuffed foxs legs, over a partridges head,
along the red-paint-stained breast of a stiff wild duck.
C. The best room smelt of moth-balls and fur and damp and dead plants and stale, sour air. Two glass
cases on wooden coffin-boxes lined the window wall.
D. It was obvious that the room was rarely used.
You can see that C introduces the room, A and B further describe it and D concludes the paragraph.

7. Keywords:
Words like so, therefore, however, hence, thus, moreover, but, because, nevertheless, yet, etc. also
help identify mandatory pairs.

For instance:
A. Yet, the cable guys control two-thirds of the market.
B. Telephone firms are now cutting down their prices to complete and grab their share of the internet
market.
C. Cable net connections are expensive.
D. This is because there is a growing demand for high speed internet access.

It is clear from the above example that CA is a mandatory pair. C puts across a point that cable net
connections are expensive. The use of yet in A, shows that despite being expensive, they hold a major
share in the market. The use of because in D gives a reason for this phenomenon. Thus, C, A and D are
connected to each other in that order. Statement B gives the effect of the phenomenon on the telephone
firms. Hence, CADB is the correct sequence.

8. General to specific:
Sometimes one gets confused about whether to move from general to specific or from specific to general.

For instance:
A. He made an interesting comment about our stores price policy.
B. He said that we could offer discounts and incentives to encourage people to buy in fewer quantities but
to buy more frequently.
C. Discounts could vary from 10 to 15 per cent on every purchase.
D. The lesser the quantity, the more frequently customers will have to visit the store. The more frequent
the visits, the more incentives they can earn.

In this case the confusion could be between BCD and BDC. Here, we will move from general to specific.
C is a specific example for D and not vice versa. Therefore, the correct sequence is ABDC.

In order to master parajumbles it is important to understand their structure. Lets slowly build up on the
concept of parajumbles. Go through the following solved examples and follow the instructions given.
1. Questions can become easy to solve if you pay more attention to only the first few words of every
statement.

For instance:
A. Although, like the Talapadas, the Pardeshis also claim to be Rajputs and Kshatriyas, most of them
have not yet adopted traditional Rajput names for their lineages.
B. Only recently a few lineages have begum to patronize the Vahivancha Barots, who have recorded
their remembered shallow genealogies and grafted them on to mythical genealogies.
C. Each Pardeshi lingeage is known after its village of origin.
D. The latter provide them with Rajput clan names, but they rarely use them in normal life.

In the above case, by reading only the highlighted words, you can clearly see a relationship between CB.
C talks about Pardeshi lineages and B continues as it starts with only recently a few lineages
Thus only by reading the first few words of every statement you can establish at least one mandatory pair
and usually eliminate at least 2 choices.

2. Lets now learn to associate keywords, ideas and form sequences. Look at the following examples:
A. Many Western observers, and under their influence many Indian scholars and social
critics also, have written that India was almost completely a stagnant country, without true history, till
she came into life-giving contact with Western civilisation in the eighteenth century.
B. The so-called joint family is one such notable institution.
C. There is a well-established viewpoint which alleges that Hindu social institutions have had
a blighting effect on Indias social and economic development.
D. They contend That the economy and society in this country, and indeed the India mind, had remained
frozen for about two thousand years till the British conquest of India introduced a vital element of
dynamism into the native society.

In the above example it can be seen clearly that CB are mandatory pairs. C talks of the blighting effect
Hindu social institutions have had on the Indian economy and society; and B continues by saying that the
joint family is one such institution. The they in D, refers to the observers, scholars and critics in A.
Therefore AD is also a mandatory pair. Thus the correct sequence is CBAD.

3. Now lets learn to build up from small sequences to bigger ones.

I. A. Such is the difficulty a carp faces in becoming a dragon.

B. Some are swept away by the by the strong currents, some fall prey to eagles, hawks, kites, and owls,
and others are netted, scooped up or even shot with arrows by fishermen who line both banks of the
falls.

In the above case, B describes the different difficulties and A obviously sums up the explanation as it
starts with such is the difficulty. BA is then the mandatory sequence.

II. A. Minamoto and Taira were like two faithful watchdogs at the gates of the imperial palace.
B. They marvelled at the elegant parties of the court nobles and their ladies, just as monkeys in the trees
are enraptured by the sight of the moon and the stars glittering in the sky.
C. They were eager to guard the emperor s humble mountain folk are to admire the full moon on the
fifteenth night of the eighth month as it rises from behind the mountains.

Here, the they in C clearly refers to the two faithful watchdogs in A. Therefore AC is a mandatory
pair. The correct sequence then is ACB.
III. A. The most important ones are the family and the school.
B. Much of the anger that is publicly expressed against the hierarchy of caste-in the newspapers, on
television, in conferences-is purposeless if not insincere.
C. Those who are serious about carrying the advance of equality further, particularly in the domain
that I have discussed, must direct their attention to the institutions that are the real obstacles in the path of
that advance.
D. Equality at least at the higher levels of society, can no longer be significantly advanced by attacking
caste.

D introduces the fact that equality can no longer be established by attacking caste. B continues the point
about anger against hierarchy if caste. The mandatory pair is DB and not BD because D is more general
than B. C then goes on to identify the real obstacles and A names the most important ones. CA is
therefore another mandatory sequence. The correct sequence then is DBCA.

IV. (i) The mighty warrior General Li Kuang, whose mother had been devoured by a tiger, shot an
arrow at the stone he believed was the tiger.
A. Later he came to be known as General Stone Tiger.
B. But once he realized it was only a stone, he was unable to pierce it again.
C. The arrow penetrated the stone all the way up to its feathers.
D. This story applies to you. Though enemies lurk in the wait for you, your resolute faith has forestalled
great dangers before they could begin.

(ii) Realizing this, you must strengthen your faith more than ever.

I clearly introduces a story and A sums up that story. C and B figure in between. D talks about the
relevance of the story and finds continuation in II. The correct sequence then is I-CBAD-II.

V. A. She had cherished hope-filed visions of America as a land of freedom and democracy.
B. Also, being a foreigner, she could not make herself understood well in English, and they treated her
coldly. At the same time, her husband had become physically abusive, and a rift had grown between
them.
C. Sadly, however, this womans dream had been shattered. Life with her in-laws was by no means
easy financially.
D. She was not alone; many people in those days turned their eyes admiringly to America, imagining it
as some sort of dream land.
E. Her sense of regret grew with each passing day. As her feelings of isolation and despair deepened,
she would often stand crying on the beach, watching the crimson sun set into the sea beyond the horizon.
F. The tears that streamed down her cheeks flooded her already wounded heart with an aching, empty
coldness, thus intensifying her sorrow.

A is an obvious opener. It talks about her hopes and dreams about America. D continues the point and
talks further about other women who had dreamt of America. C then mentions that her dream were sadly
shattered. B adds more points about how her dreams were shattered. E talks about her sense of regret and
F starts by talking of her consequent tears and sorrow. The correct sequence therefore is ADCBEF.

Now that you know the real tricks needed to crack parajumbles, attempt the following exercises on your
own.

Exercise Based On This:

Direction (Q. 1-6): Rearrange the following six sentences (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) and (F) in
the proper sequence to form a meaningful paragraph; then answer the questions given
below them.

(A) We at Infoquicktech thus make sure that our clients receive the best and the quickest
services in the eld of IT.
(B) Information Technology has transformed a lot in this decade and this metamorphosis
is exceedingly quick.
(C) The user can now get the desired information in a fraction of a second.
(D)Our newer packages now perform in a far better way than our clients used to get in
the past.
(E) Our search engines have been astoundingly powerful to process and fetch the
required information to the user.
(F) These improvements perform a real magic, in the true sense of the term, to facilitate
quicker access.

1. Which of the following will be the FIFTH sentence after rearrangement?

1) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) E

2. Which of the following will be the SIXTH (LAST) sentence after rearrangement?
1) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) E

3. Which of the following will be the FIRST sentence after rearrangement?

1) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) E

4. Which of the following will be the-SECOND sentence after rearrangement?

1) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) E

5. Which of the following will be the FOURTH sentence after rearrangement?

l) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) F

6. Which of the following will be the THIRD sentence after rearrangement?

l) A
2) B
3) C
4) D
5) E

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paragraph_27.html#ixzz46zKBlKjs

Mission IBPS Exam :Rules of Subject Verb Agreement

Dear Readers,
Many of our readers were demanding rules for Grammar, considering this here, we are
providing rules of Subject Verb Agreement, which is crux of entire Grammar. We are providing
you quiz of English which is one of the most important sections of banking exams, in which you
can score maximum with ease if you are practicing on very regular basis, It is crucial for all the
upcoming banking exams, IBPS/RRB etc.

Subject Verb Agreement relates to number agreement (singular or plural) between the
subject and the verb that follows it
e.g. The girl plays all day. (singular subject)
The girls play all day. (plural subject)

There are two important exceptions to subject verb agreement. Firstly, agreement only
applies when the verb is in the present tense. In the past tense, there is no overt
agreement between the subject and the verb.

e.g. The girl played all day.

The girls played all day.

And secondly, agreement applies only to third person subjects. There is no distinction
between a first person singular subject and a first person plural subject.

e.g. I play all day.

We play all day.

The main principle is : Singular subjects need singular verbs : plural subjects need ;
plural subjects need plural verbs. Some basic rules:

1. When subject of a sentence is composed of two or more nouns or pronouns connected by

and, we use a plural verb.
He and his friends are at the fair.
This rule is not follow when two nouns refer to the same object.
The wicket keeper and Captain was given the man of the match award.

2. When two or more singular nouns or pronouns are connected by or or nor, we use a singular
verb.
e.g. The paper or the pencil is in the desk.
3. When a compound subject contains both a singular and a plural noun or pronoun joined by or
or nor, the verb should agree with the part of the subject that is nearer to the verb.
e.g. Shivin or his friends run every day.
His friends or Shivin runs every day.

4. Doesnt is contraction of does not and should be used only with a singular subject. Dont is a
contraction of do not and should be used only with a plural subject. The exception to this rule
appears in the case of the first person and second person pronouns I and you. With these
pronouns the contraction dont should be used.
e.g. She doesnt like it.
They dont like it.

5. A phrase between the subject and the verb should not be misleading, the verb agrees with
the subject, not with a noun or pronoun in the phrase.
e.g. The captain, as well as his players, is anxious.
The book, in parts, is boring.
The building, with all its contents, is insured.

6. Each, each one, either, neither, everyone, everybody, anybody, nobody, somebody, some
one and no one are singular and require a singular verb.
e.g. Each of these books is good.
Everybody knows him.
Either is correct.

7. Nouns such as civics, mathematics, rupees and news require singular verbs.
e.g. The news is on at eight.
When talking about an amount of money, it requires a singular verb, but when referring to the
rupees themselves, a plural verb is required.
e.g. Five hundred rupees is a lot of money.
Rupees are often used instead or Rupiahs in Nepal.

8. Nouns such as scissors, trousers, shears and shorts require plural verbs.
e.g. These shears are dull.
These shorts are made of cotton.

9. In sentences beginning with there is, there are, the subject follows the verb. Since there is not
the subject, the verb agrees with what follows.
e.g. There are many questions
There is a question.

10. Collective nouns are words that imply more than one person but are considered singular
and take a singular verb, such as : group, team, committee, class and family.
e.g. The family has a long history of writers.
The committee has prepared the agenda.

11. With, together with, including, accompanied by, in addition to, or as well do not change the
number of the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb is too.
e.g. The Chairman, including his team, is travelling to China.
The boys, together with their friends, are going for a picnic.
12. The relative pronouns (who, whom, which, and that) are either singular or plural, depending
on the words they refer to.
e.g. The sales manager is good researcher who spends a great amount of time surfing the Web
for information.
Subject : The sales manager Verbs: is, spends

13. A few nouns can be either plural or singular, depending on whether they mean a group or
Separate individuals. These words are rarely used as plurals in modern writing.
e.g. 1. The jury has decided unanimously.
Subject: jury Verb: is
2. The jury are having an argument.
Subject: jury Verb: are having

14. Do not be misled by a phrase that comes between the subject and the verb. The agrees with
the
subject, not with a noun or pronoun in the phrase.
e.g. One of the boxes is open.
The people who listen to music are few.

15. Two singular subjects connected by either/or or neither/nor require a singular verb as in
Rule 1.
e.g. Neither John nor Abraham is available.
Either Bipasha or neelam is helping today with stage decoration.

16. When/is one of the two subjects connected by either/or or neither/nor, put it second and
follow it with the singular verb am.
e.g. Neither she nor I am going to the festival

17. With words that indicate portions-percent, fraction, part, majority, some, all, none,
remainder, and so forth look at the noun in your of phrase (object of the preposition) to
determine whether to use a singular of plural verb. If the object of the preposition is singular,
use a singular verb. If the object of the preposition is plural, use a plural verb.
e.g. 1. Fifty percent of the pie has disappeared. (Pie is the object of the preposition of.)
2. Fifty percent of the pies have disappeared.
3. One-third of the city is unemployed.
4. One-third of the people are unemployed.

NOTE: Hyphenate all spelled-out fractions.

5. All of the pie is gone.
6. All of the pies are gone.
7. Some of the pie is missing.
8. Some of the pies are missing.

18. Use a singular verb with sums of money or periods of time.

e.g. Ten dollars is a high price to pay.
Five years is the maximum sentence for that offense.

Identifying the subject

Word groups often come between the subject and the verb. These word groups may contain a
noun that at first appears to be the subject. Identify the word group between the subject and the
verb in order to isolate the noun.
 e.g. The girl plays all day. (singular subject)
e.g. The slaughter of pandas for their pelts have caused panda population to decline
Drastically. (Incorrect)
The slaughter of pandas for their pelts has caused the panda population to decline drastically.
(Correct)

Thus, the subject is slaughter and not pandas or pelts.

Phrases beginning with the prepositions as well as, in addition to, accompanied by, and
along with, do not make a singular subject plural.
e.g. The Chief Minister, as well as his principal secretary, was shot.
e.g. If a customer buys a burger, he or she has to pay service tax. (correct)
If a customer buys a burger, they have to buy a parking ticket. (incorrect)

Questions:
Directions: Find out the error, if any in questions given in each practice set. If there is no
error, the answer is (e), i.e No error (ignore the errors of punctuation, if any.)

1. A few kilometers beyond (a) /that villa was seen two aliens (b )/along with (c)/ a few
Americans and Russian scientists (d)/ No error (e).

2. It is well known fact that (a)/the upper middle class have no soft (b)/ corner for the poor
and the oppressed who are the (c)/real victims of this social system (d)/ No error (e).

3. Sheetal as well as (a)/ some of her friends (b)/have fallen in love with a hunky fellow,
who (c)/ is the eldest son of an I.A.S. officer (d)/ No error (e).

4. More than one successful candidate of this institute (a)/have taken the interview for
one (b)/of the most popular dailies (c)/being published from Los Angels (d)/ No error (e).

5. More than one book on life style (a)/ and motivation by this writer (b)/have been
published so far and (c)/all are selling like a hot cake (d)/ No error (e).

6. Many a man along with (a)/a few friends of mine are going (b)/to DevGhar to offer
flowers and (c)/milk to Lord Shiva (d)/ No error (e).

7. Many an employee of this company (a)/ are supposed to be transferred (b)/ to some
other company (c)/ of the same category because of recession (d)/ No error (e).

8. The political leader as well as (a)/ his retinues are going on a hunger (b)/ Strike to
protest this (c)/ unnecessary price hike (d)/ No error (e).

9. Although this book as well as those (a)/ books of yours are similar (b)/ in many ways,
mine has (c)/ an edge over many a book of yours (d)/ No error (e).

10. The prime minister along with his (a)/ attendants are coming tomorrow (b)/ to address
the sensational (c)/ and controversial issues of terrorism (d)/ No error (e).

Answers..
1. b
2. b
3. c
4. b
5. c
6. b
7. a
8. b
9. b
10. b

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verb.html#ixzz46zKNxNUI

Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Conjunctions)

Dear Readers,
Today we are posting the concepts on conjunction. You all know that conjunction is a word that
connect two statements. It is very important for you to identify the errors, sentence
improvements, and cloze test.

Conjunction

A conjunction is a word which merely joins together sentences or clauses, and sometimes
words.
1. That is a beautiful place and I have been there.
2. That is the beautiful place where I have been to.

Classes of Conjunctions
Conjunctions are divided into two classes: 1) Co-ordinating and 2) Sub-ordinating.
1. Co-ordinating conjunction :
It joins together clauses of equal ranks. For eg. He is slow, but he is sure.
2. Sub-ordinating conjunction :
It joins together clauses in which one is dependent on the other. For eg. Since you wish to excel
in life, you must learn English.

Some rules

Rule: Scarcely should be followed by when, not by than.

Incorrect: Scarcely had he arrived than he had to leave again.
Correct: Scarcely had he arrived when he had to leave again.

Rule : No sooner is followed by than, not by but.

Incorrect: No sooner had we reached the station but the train left.
correct: No sooner had we reached the station than the train left.
Note : "No sooner A ... than B" is very similar to "Scarcely A... when B" and has almost the
same meaning.

Rule : Do not use seldom or ever in place of seldom or never.

Incorrect: The national network seldom or ever telecasts good programmes.
Correct: The national network seldom or never telecasts good programmes.

Rule : Correlative conjunctions should be followed by the same part of speech.

Incorrect: He neither agreed to my proposal nor to his.
Correct: He agreed neither to my proposal nor to his.

Rule : Neither is followed by nor, not by or.

Incorrect: The phone neither went dead or worked properly.
Correct: The phone neither went dead nor worked properly.

Rule : The conjunction that is not used before

i) a sentence in direct narration.
ii) an interrogative adverb or interrogative pronoun in the indirect narration.
Incorrect: He said that, "it is none of my business".
Correct: He said, "It is none of my business."
Incorrect: He asked me that which was the way to the station.
Correct: He asked me which was the way to the station.

Rule : Although goes with yet or a comma (,) in the other clause.
Incorrect: Although Manohar is hardworking, but he does not get a job.
Correct: Although Manohar is hardworking, yet he does not get a job.
Note : Though/Although is used with contradictory sentences (sentences expressing opposite
views).
Incorrect: Since she was sick, she attended the party.
Correct: Though she was sick, she attended the party.

Rule : Nothing else should be followed by but, not by than.

Incorrect: Mr Bureaucrat! This is nothing else than red-tapism.
Correct: Mr Bureaucrat! This is nothing else but red-tapism.

Rule : The correlative conjunctions indeed... but are used to emphasis the contrast between the
first and the second parts of the statement.
Incorrect: I am indeed happy with my school but it produces famous men.
Correct: I am indeed happy with my school that it produces famous men.

Rule : In a "not only ... but also ... "sentence, the verb should agree with the noun or pronoun
mentioned second, that is, the one after but also because this is the part being emphasised.
Incorrect: Not only the students but also the teacher were responsible for what happened in the
class.
Correct: Not only the students but also the teacher was responsible for what happened in the
class.
Rule : Not only ... but also always comes before the same part of speech.
Incorrect: They not only gave me standing ovation but also a cash prize of `1000.
Correct: They gave me not only standing ovation but also a cash prize of `1000.

Rule : Such...as is used to denote a category whereas such...that emphasises the degree of
something by mentioning its consequence.
Incorrect: Each member of the alliance agrees to take such action as it deems necessary.
Correct: Each member of the alliance agrees to take such action that it deems necessary.

Rule : The conjunction lest is followed by should.

Incorrect: Work hard lest you would fail.
Correct: Work hard lest you should fail.
Note: Lest is a negative word. There should be no use of not, nothing, never, no with
lest.
Incorrect: Word hard lest you should not fail.
Correct: Word hard lest you should fail.

Rule : The conjunction soas is used for comparison in a negative sentence whereasas is
used in a positive or affirmative sentence.
Incorrect: He is not as tall as his brother.
Correct: He is not so tall as his brother.

Rule : The conjunction, both is followed by and and not by as well as or along with.
Incorrect: Both the boys as well as the girls were asbent.
Correct: Both the boys and the girls were absent.

Rule : The conjunction unless denotes condition whereas until denotes time.
Incorrect: Until you work hard, you will not succeed.
Correct: Unless you work hard, you will not succeed.
Note : Unless and Until are negative words. There should be no use of not nothing,
never with unless and until.

Questions based on above concepts.

Directions: In each of the following questions, find out which part of the sentence has an
error. The error may be grammatical or idiomatic. If there is no mistake, the answer is No
error.

1. The managing director well as (a)/ the Board members was in (b)/ favour of taking strict
action (c)/ against the striking workers. (d)/ No error (e)

2. Unless he does not return (a)/ all the library books (b)/ he will not be relieved (c)/ from the
service.(d)/ No error (e)

3. You must either tell me (a)/ the whole story or (b)/, at least, the (c)/ first half of it. (d)/ No
error (e)

4. The old woman has had the (a)/ best medical facilities available (b)/ but she will not be cured
unless she does not have (c)/ a strong desire to live.(d)/ No error (e)
5. Hardly had I reached (a)/ the airport where (b)/ I learnt about the powerful (c)/ bomb
explosion.(d)/ No error (e)

6. The manager of the bank (a)/ was busy; so he asked them (b)/ to come and see him between
two to (c)/ three in the afternoon.(d)/ No error (e)

7. Because he is physically (a)/ strong, therefore he was (b)/ selected for the school (c)/ boxing
team.(d)/ No error (e)

8. Being a strict (a)/ vegetarian he depended (b)/ on milk and fruit and (c)/ had to cook for
himself.(d)/ No error (e)

9. Even though the shirt (a)/ is rather expensive but (b)/ I wish to purchase (c)/ it with my own
money.(d)/ No error (e)

10. Unless Ashish does not (a)/ return all the library books, (b)/ he will not be awarded (c)/ the
pass certificate. (d)/ No error (e)

Answers will be provided soon

1. a; Add as before well

2. a; Replace does not return with returns
3. e; No error
4. c; Replace does not have with has
5. b; Replace where with when
6. c; Replace to with and
7. b; Remove therefore
8. c; Replace and with or
9. b; Remove but

10. a; Replace unless with if

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english_12.html#ixzz46zKcwSx5

Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Prepositions)

Dear Readers,

Moving forward in our series named "Gateway to SBI Mains", today we will be posting the
concepts on Prepositions. It is one of the easy and crucial factor in any banking or SSC exams. You can
find questions related to prepositions in Error Detection, Sentence Correction and Cloze Test. Do read
it and do remember it.
Prepositions
A preposition is a word placed before a noun (or a pronoun) to show in what relation the person or thing
denoted by it stands to something else.

Kinds of Preposition
1) Simple Prepositions : They are the simple words used as prepositions.
For example, at, by, for, from, in, of, off,on, out, over, through, till, to, under, up, with.
2) Compound Prepositions : They are generally formed by prefixing a preposition (usually a = on or be
= by) to a
noun, an adjective or an adverb.
For example,about, above, across, along, amidst, among, around, before, behind, below, beneath, beside,
between, beyond, inside, outside, underneath, within, without.
3) Phrase Prepositions : When a group of words is used with the force of a single preposition, it is
known as a phrase preposition.
For example, He succeeded in spite of obstacles.
4) Participial Prepositions: When the present participle of a verb acts as a preposition, it is known as a
participle preposition.
For example, There have not been too many celebrations in recent times barring those happened after
Diwali.

Rules based on frequent asked questions

Rule : In is used with names of countries and large towns; at is more often used when speaking of small
towns and villages.
Incorrect: He lives at Germany.
Correct: He lives in Germany.

Rule : In and at are used in speaking of things at rest; to and into are used in speaking of things in motion.
Incorrect : This week the song jumped at the top of the charts.
Correct: This week the song jumped to the top of the charts.

Rule : Till is used of time and to is used of place.

Incorrect: The office will remain open to six in the evening.
Correct: The office will remain open till six in the evening.

Rule : With often denotes the instrument used by the agent.

Incorrect: The ball was hit by the bat.
Correct: The ball was hit with the bat.
Rule : Both since and from are used before a noun denoting some point of time. However, while since is
preceded by a verb in the perfect tense, from is used with the
non-perfect tense.
Incorrect: India has been playing Test cricket from 1932.
Correct: India has been playing Test cricket since 1932.

Rule : While since or from is used with a point of time, for is used with a period of time.
Incorrect: The parcel has been lying here since 10 days.
Correct: The parcel has been lying here for 10 days.

Rule : Beside means by the side of while besides means in additions to.
Incorrect: He sat besides the chair.
Correct: He sat beside the chair.

Rule : Between is used for only two things or persons while among is used for more than two.
Incorrect: You have to choose among tea and coffee.
Correct: You have to choose between tea and coffee.

Rule : Above and below merely denote position while over and under also carry a sense of covering or
movement.
Incorrect: The bird flew above the lake.
Correct: The bird flew over the lake.

Rule : During is used when we are talking about the time within which something happens. For is used
when we are talking about how long something lasts.
Incorrect: There were few incidents of irregularity for the Emergency years.
Correct: There were few incidents of irregularity during the Emergency years.

Rule: The preposition off denotes separation, at a distance from or far from whereas the
preposition of denotes cause, origin, quality, possession.
Incorrect: He put of his coat.
Correct: He put off his coat. (Separation)
Incorrect: He died off cancer.
He died of cancer. (Cause)

Rule : The word compare is followed by to when it shows that two things are alike. It is followed by with
when we look at the ways in which two things are like and unlike each other.
Incorrect: Sanath Jayasuriya's batting may be compared with the sales of a useful book: they score fast
right from the beginning.
Correct: Sanath Jayasuriya's batting may be compared to the sales of a useful book: they score fast right
from the beginning.

Rule : When we simply speak of a thing having got better, we talk of an improvement in it. When we
compare two things, the second of which is better than the first, we talk of an improvement on the first
thing.
Incorrect: There has been an improvement on the weather.
Correct: There has been an improvement in the weather.

Rule : In means at the end of, while within means before the end of, the said time duration.
Incorrect: We left at 5 o'clock expecting to come back in an hour and watch the 6 o'clock movie.
Incorrect: We left at 5 o'clock expecting to come back within an hour and watch the 6 o'clock movie.
Some important points about prepositions
1. The words superior, inferior, senior, junior etc. take the preposition to with them.
Incorrect: Ram is senior than Mohan.
Correct: Ram is senior to Mohan.

2. The words prefer, preferrable, preferred also take the preposition to with them.
Incorrect: I prefer tea than coffee.
Correct: I prefer tea to coffee.

3. The words inspite of and despite share the same meaning. The only difference is that inspite
takes the preposition of whereas despite does not take any preposition.
Incorrect: Despite of bad weather, he went to school.
Correct: Despite bad weather, he went to school.
In the same way, the word consist takes the preposition of whereas comprise does not take any
preposition.
Incorrect: The classroom comprises of twenty students.
Correct: The classroom comprises twenty students.

Following questions are based on the above concepts

Directions: Choose the most appropriate preposition in each of the following sentences.

1. The peasant refused to grovel _______ the feet of his master.

a) on
b) about
c) upon
d) at
e) None of these

2. He was killed _______ a highway man ______ a dagger.

a) by; for
b) by; with
c) in; for
d) with; for
e) None of these

3. Give an example pertinent ________ the case.

a) with
b) for
c) on
d) to
e) None of these

4. Are not these slums a disgrace ______ the civic authorities.

a) for
b) to
c) towards
d) on
e) None of these

5. Take this medicine and you will get rid _______ the bad cold.
a) from
b) over
c) at
d) of
e) None of these]

6. President Saddam Hussain has lived _______ the gun all his life.
a) with
b) for
c) by
d) on
e) None of these

7. He had to repent _______ what he had done.

a) at
b) of
c) over
d) for
e) None of these

8. The commentator seems to be enamoured _______ it.

a) with
b) over
c) for
d) on
e) None of these

9. The man died _______ fever last week.

a) with
b) from
c) of
d) by
e) None of these

10. He has not been cured _______ his disease.

a) of
b) from
c) by
d) through
e) None of these

Directions (Q.11-20). Read each sentence to find out whether there is any grammatical
error or idiomatic error in it. The error, if any, will he in one part of the sentence. The
number of that part is the answer. If there is 'No error', the answer is 'e'.

11. I have been teaching a)/ in this school since b)/ several years but have c)/ never met such a hopless
class as this. d)/ No error e)
12. I have an a)/ appointment on the b)/ 9th of September on c)/ five Oclock.d)/ No error e)
13. Despite of a good a)/ monsoon this year, the b)/ production of food grains in the country c)/ did not go
up.d)/ No error e)
14. Ordinarily, when in a)/ difficulty Renu prefers b)/ keeping her counsel than c)/ running about taking
advice.d)/ No error e)
15. The invitation card a)/ says that Satish b)/ marries with c)/ Sunita next month.d)/ No error e)
16. She looked very a)/ different from the b)/ photograph I c)/ had of her. d)/ No error e)
17. The bride said a)/ that she would not b)/ marry the man c)/ over thirty five.d)/ No error e)
18. The reason a)/ of his failure b)/ is due to c)/ his negligence.d)/ No error e)
19. The captain and his a)/ wife were invited b)/ for the cultural c)/ function at my home.d)/ No error e)
20. Yesterday, while a)/ crossing the b)/ road he was run out c)/ by a truck. d) No error e)

Answers :
1. d
2. b
3. d
4. b
5. d
6. c
7. d
8. a
9. c
10. a
11. b; Replace since with for.
12. c; Replace on with at.
13. a; Omit of
14. c; Replace than with to
15. c; Replace with with to
16. e; No error.
17. d; Replace over with above
18. b; Replace of with for
19. c; Replace for with at
20. c; Replace run out with run over

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Important Rules of Prepositions

Hello Readers,

As you all know that prepositions is an important part of English Grammar. So, here we are
providing you a list of some prepositions widely used in English Language for the upcoming exams
like SBI PO 2015, NICL Assistant and IBPS 2015.

The usage of some preposition with some words is fixed. Some of them are given
below. Have a look. Hope you all like the post.

Accustomed of

He was accustomed of working hard in his youth. (used to)

Accused of

The man accused of stealing was sent to jail. (blamed of)

Acquainted with

Please introduce him to me if you are acquainted with him. (know)

Afraid of

Dont get afraid of that dog. It wont bite. (fear from)

Agree to (idea)

The president agreed to the resolution and passed it. (accept)

Agree with (person)

If you agree with me please support me. (have same opinion)

According to

He was acquitted as he was innocent according to the jury. (in the opinion of)

Adapted to

Man easily gets adapted to new environments. (change)

Along with

The Prime Minister along with his retinue entered the hall. (together with)

Associated with

He had long been associated with the organization before he retired. (worked with)

Averse to
 Initially people are averse to accepting their weakness, but with the passage of time they start
realizing and correcting themselves. (unwilling to)

Believe in (faith)

I believe in God. (have faith in)

Belong to

As this country belongs to us, we belong to this country. (have a right over)

Clever at

She is clever at painting and playing mu sic, but I am at mu sic. (skilled at)

Congratulate on

I congratulated her on her great success. (greeted)

Cure for

As man conquers a disease and find a cure for it, another pops up. (remedy for)

Depend on

High rate of employment depends on growth of economy. (is related with)

Derived from

Many English words are derived from Greek and Latin. (came/originate from)

Details of

This new book contains de tails of her extensive journey. (description of)

Different from

Village life is quite different from city life. (not same)

Divide into

The property was divided into two parts and given to the two sons. (break into)

Dream of

The henpeck husband could never dream of op pos ing his wife. (think of) Frightened of
Those frightened of obstacles never proceed ahead for success. (having fear of)

Famous for

The city of Benaras is famous for its teeming ghats. (known for)

Good at

He is quite good at convincing people in his favour. (skilled at)

Ignorant of

Being ignorant of the consequences, thenaives easily fall into bad habits. (not knowing)

Increase in

There has been a tremendous increase in the multi-nationals in our country. (rise in)

Insist on

The shopkeeper could not deny when she insisted on paying later. (said forcefully)

Interested in

Work hard if you are interested in your progress. (want to)

Lack of

Lack of money brings poverty and lack of knowledge ignorance. (devoid of, not having)

Fond of
 The mother was very fond of her youngest child. (loved/liked very much)

Aim at

The shooter aimed at the tar get and shot accurately. (fix at the tar get)

Laugh at

Dont laugh at those who are deprived of Gods blessings. (ridicule, make fun of)

Listen to

Hello! Please listen to me. (lend your ear, heed, pay attention to)

Look at

What are you looking at? (see)

Look after

The nurse looked after the child better than the mother. (to take care of, to rear)

Look for

Have you lost anything? What are you looking for under the table. (to search for)

Look into

I have requested the police commissioner to look into the matter of increasing crime in our
locality. (investigate, to probe, examine)

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Gateway to SBI Mains : English (Articles)

Dear Readers,
We were happy that you have all shared your doubts and experience with us on
yesterday's post on BA. Today we are posting the concepts on one of the important topic of
grammer i.e Article. It can be very handy while doing the Error Detection, Sentence Correction/
Phrase Replacement and Cloze Test.
Article :
The words "A" or "An" and "The" are called Articles. They come before nouns. There are two
Articles - "A (or An)" and "The".
"A" or "An" is called the Indefinite Article, because it usually leaves indefinite the person or
thing spoken of; as, A Ground, A Cow
Indefinite (Not Sure) : If you are talking about some random thing or person, then you use
Indefinite Article. In the above example, 'A Cow' means a random cow. Similarly 'A Ground'
means any random ground and no one can be sure which we are talking about.

"The" is called the Definite Article, because it normally points out some particular person or
thing.
For example, The Cow, The Ground.
Definite Article (a particular thing or person) : If we say 'The' before any noun, it means we are
talking about a prticular thing or person. In the above example 'The Cow' means a particular
cow. Similarly 'The Ground' means a particular ground.

Use of the indefinite article

Incorrect : There are 365 days in the year.

Every year has 365 days and it is not about the particular year.
Correct : There are 365 days in an year.

Indefinite articles can also be used in a sense of each, every or per.

The doctor said Take the pill twice a day.

Use of the definite article

Incorrect : He has been causing trouble since a day he came.

In the above example, the statement is about a particular day therefore 'the' will be used
Correct : He has been causing trouble since the day he came.

When a singular noun is meant to represent a whole class.

The Elephant is a huge animal.

So based on above concept, below is the quiz : In the below quiz, try to find the errors
related to Articles.

1. As soon as the teacher (a)/ entered everyone (b)/ in the class fell (c)/ in a silence.(d)/ No error
(e)
2. On my request (a)/ Lalit introduced me (b)/ to his friend who (c)/ is singer and a scientist.(d)/
No error(e)

3. To perform this (a)/ experiment drop (b)/ little sugar into a glass of water (c)/ and see the
change.(d)/ No error (e)

4. Even now when I (a)/ see the spot (b)/ I am reminded of an unique accident (c)/ that took
place several years ago.(d)/ No error (e)

5. With little (a)/ imagination and enterprise the tournament (b)/ could have been transformed
(c)/ into a major attraction.(d)/ No error(e)

6. Page after page (a)/ of Gita were read (b)/ and it gave great (c)/ consolation to his mind.(d)
No error (e)

7. One should (a)/ be true to ones promises (b)/ in order to earn (c)/ name & fame in the life.(d)
No error (e)

8. The robbers were (a)/ caught just as they (b)/ were about to escape (c)/ from the jail.(d)/ No
error(e)

9. The man is mortal (a)/ and ultimately he has to leave (b)/ everything here yet how irrationally
(c)/ he remains attached to his worldly possessions.(d)/ No error(e)

10. In a mountaineering (a)/ expedition higher you (b)/ go from the base (c)/ camp the colder
you feel.(d)/ No error (e)

Answers

1. (d)
Omit 'a' before "silence" as it is uncountable noun.
2. (d)
It should be "A singer and scientist"
3. (c)
Put 'a" before "little".
4. (c)
Replace "an" with "a".
5. (a)
Put "a" before "little"
6. (b)
Put "the" before "Gita" as it is the name of a religious text.
7. (d)
Omit "the" before "Life"
8. (d)
Omit "the" before "jail" as it has been used for primary purpose.
9. (a)
Omit "the" before "man".
10. (b)
Put "the" before "higher" as it is a comparative.
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article.html#ixzz471ID8H3n

Simple Tips on Sentence Rearrangement

Rearrangement of sentences or paragraph anagrams is the most commonly seen question in the
Banking exams and other competitive exams. Its interesting to know that this question doesnt
examine any previously learnt concepts, neither is it based on any particular logic. What it tests
is common sense and speed. Extensive practice is the key. However, I have a few strategies for
all of you. Study them and use them in the exercise that follow and youll be comfortable with
them.

Paragraph jumbles questions are presented in different forms.

TYPE 1
Four/ five sentences either numbered 1,2,3,4,5 or lettered a, b, c, d, e are given in a jumbled
form. The sentences are followed by choices of four possible combinations of arrangements
of these sentences. You have to choose the most logical order of arrangement of these
sentences to form a meaningful, coherent paragraph.
For example,
A. The managers are themselves parts of various hierarchies of managerial influence, coupled to
one another by explicit and implicit codes of behaviour and information network.
B. Management science and MIS have introduced new elements of complexity into the
managers world.
C. Management deals with complex social systems joined by physical and informational
mechanisms to other social systems that are the responsibility of other managers.
D. If this seems to make the social system appear complex, it is so intended.
(1) DCAB
(2) ADCB
(3) DBAC
(4) CADB

TYPE 2
A set of six sentences is given, in which the first and the sixth sentences are fixed at their
respective positions. The four sentences that falls between the first and the sixth sentences
are presented in a jumbled form. You are asked to choose the logical order of sentences
from the choices.
1. If the phenomenon of down gradation is understood and accepted, brands have to continuously
seek options that offer better value to consumers.
A. Therefore, given an option, the consumer was willing to be satisfied by greater value from
trusted brands rather than downgrade.
B. Tea in polypacks doubled their volume share between 1989 and 1991 in Bombay.
C. Biscuits in family packs witnessed phenomenal growth of such brands even during periods of
inflation.
D. The onset of the down gradation phenomenon seems to be a good time to launch new
products, or better still, create new sub-categories.
6. For instance, the more expensive gel toothpaste category upped its share in Bombay by six
percent at the expense of popular and economy brands.
(1) BCAD
(2) CDAB
(3) ADBC
(4) DCBA

Strategy 1
Avoid reading the sentences closely; that is not required and is a waste of time. Inspect the
choices; if each of the choices begins with different letters, identifying the sentence to begin
the sequence leads to the correct answer.
The following example illustrates this.
1.Small companies that compete effectively tend to grow, and growth brings increasing
complexity and specialization in each function.
A.Technologists talk about processes, new materials, and worry about prototype results and
technical problems; as regards language and interests, they have little in common with
marketing.
B.As the company grows it tends increasingly to fragment into separate functional islands, each
trying to solve its own problems, each using its own special language and having its own
priorities.
C.Marketing people, for instance, talk about market segmentation, market growth, promotions
and product image, and worry about changes in share.
D.Production people talk and worry about industrial relations, people arriving on time, and plant
and equipment breakdown and delays.
6.They in their turn have little in common with either marketing or the technologists who, they
consider, live in ivory towers.
1. DACB 2. BCAD 3. ACBD 4. CDAB

In the above question, the choices begin with different letters. The best strategy then would be
to inspect sentence 1 and to identify the sentence that logically follows 1
Sentence 1 deals with growth of companies and sentence B begins with the continuity phrase, as
the company grows. Consequently, B has to follow 1 and the answer therefore is choice 2. You
require minimum steps in arriving at the answer in such questions.

Strategy 2
In choices that are closely related, identify a mandatory pair of sentences (two sentences
that should form a sequence).
A.This linking of politics and music is of course ancient and even Aristotle in his book Politics
said, We may compare the best form of government to the most harmonious piece of music.
B.Mixing metaphors, Mr. Clinton referred to the symphony so central to western music and said,
It is time both nations heard the musical compositions of each other and understood each other
better.
C.The oligarchic and despotic to the more violent tunes; and the democratic to the soft and
gentler airs.
D.The US President was confident that if governments and people of the two democracies made
a determined bid to understand each others perspectives scripts, they could create new
symphonies.
E.Such attempts to secure symphony would be so much better than the individual bids for
virtuoso improvisations and adherence to classical compositions.
1. BACDE 2. DCAEB 3. DECAB 4. BDEAC
In the above question, observe that the choices are closely related. Two choices begin with D
and the other two with B. In such cases avoid working from the first sentence; instead inspect the
sentences quickly and identify a particular pair of sentences that are mandatory. In the above
case EA is a mandatory sequence. Only choice 4 satisfies this condition, and therefore the most
logical sequence.

Strategy 3
Look out for quick clues such as pronouns, conjunctions etc. in the beginning of sentences
to help you establish a sequence.
E.g.1.As a senior economist associated with the reforms programme used to say, a sure
indication that the new economic policy was succeeding would be when foreign investors start
trekking to Delhi in the sweltering heat of May and June.
A.If nothing else, India Power 94 came as a welcome break to the power ministry; most of the
participants had complimentary things to say about government policy.
B.And there were would-be entrants like the Hong Kong-based China Light and Power Company
who had turned up armed with a fax from the power ministry listing available projects in India.
C.Were that the only yardstick, then judging by the attendance at India Power 94, at least the
reforms in the power sector could be declared a success.
D.There were the familiar names Enron, AES, Cogentrix, and Spectrum Technologies.
6.This was in striking contrast to the adverse comments the ministry had been attracting so far.
1. ADBC 2. BDCA 3.CDBA 4. DBCA
In the above question, a smart test taker will quickly identify the phrase were that the only
yardstick in sentence C. This is a thought continuity of the idea in sentence 1 foreign investors
trekking to Delhi. Consequently C has to follow 1; eliminate choices 1, 2, and 4.Choice 3
is the correct answer.

Strategy 4
In six sentences variety, work backward from sentence 6 if there is no obvious clue to work
from sentence 1; many a time we overlook the hints that may be valuable
Lets take a look at such an example.
1.A recent advertisement of Premier Instruments and Controls Ltd., a leading manufacturer of
dashboard instruments, in a financial daily, summed it all up.
A.The fact is that executives from companies, ranging from Daimler Benz to General Motors,
have been scouring the Indian countryside looking for suppliers of cheap components for
products made in their European and American plants.
B.It obviously does not even have the time to make the investments required to set up a new
plant.
C.Today, most Indian automobile component manufactures cannot produce enough to meet
demand both domestic and international.
D.The company was soliciting spare capacities for the supply of intricate machines and sheet-
metal components.
6.While some of them do find good deals, many have had to go back empty-handed.
1. ADCB 2. CBAD 3.BACD 4. DBCA
In the question given above, see that them in sentence 6 refers to executives referred to in
sentence A. i.e. A precedes 6; choice 4 is the answer.
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rearrangement.html#ixzz471IY6d55

Important Grammar Tips

Hello Readers,

One of our ardent readers Coraline shared some Grammar Tips with us which we hope will
be helpful to you all for the upcoming Bank Exams i.e. SBI PO 2015 and IBPS CWE 2015.
The tips will be useful or other competitive Exams as well. Hope you all like the post.....

GRAMMAR TIP 1
Possessive case of a noun (nouns with 's) is used with living things.
Example : Mohan' s cap, Ram's school, sister's right
Incorrect : This room's carpet must be changed.
Correct : The carpet of this room must be changed. (Room is a lifeless thing)

GRAMMAR TIP 2
Sometimes 's is wrongly put in the place of preposition.
Incorrect : This author's book is not good. (Book possessed by this author)
Correct : The book of this author is not good. (Book written by this author)

GRAMMAR TIP 3
Double possessives should not be used.
Incorrect : My mother's brother's daughter came.
Correct : The daughter of the brother of my mother came.

GRAMMAR TIP 4
In the case of 'somebody else', 'everyone else ',' anybody else' etc., 's is put after else.
Incorrect : This is somebody's else job.
Correct : This is somebody else's job.

GRAMMAR TIP 5
When two nouns are joined by 'and' then 'apostrophe s' ('s) is added to both if we want to denote the
possession of both & to last if we denote joint possession.
Incorrect : Suzy's and Juicy's father was present.
Correct : Suzy and Juicy's father was present.

GRAMMAR TIP 6
When we speak of two things of the same class, the word 'other' should not be left out.
Incorrect : Neither his brother nor any member of the family helped him.
Correct : Neither his brother nor any other member of the family helped him.

GRAMMAR TIP 7

Present Indefinite
Verb form I [ s, es]
He works hard.
Present Continuous
is/am/are + verb form I + ing
He is working hard.

Present Perfect
has/have + verb form III
He has worked hard.

Present Perfect Continuous

has/have + been + verb form I + ing
He has been working hard.

GRAMMAR TIP 8

Past Indefinite
verb form II [ did + verb form I]
He worked hard.

Past Continuous
was/were + verb form I + ing
He was working hard.

Past Perfect
had + verb form III
He had worked hard.

Past Perfect Continuous

had + been + verb form I + ing
He had been working hard.

GRAMMAR TIP 9

Future Indefinite
will/shall + verb form I
He will work hard.

Future Continuous
will/shall + be + verb form I + ing
He will be working hard.

Future Perfect
will/shall + have + verb form III
He will have worked hard for 20 years before he retires.

Future Perfect Continuous

will/shall + have + been + verb form I + ing
He will have been working hard for more than 8 hours.

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Most Confusing and Common mistakes in English
Grammar
Word(s) Rule
Who/Whom Who is subjective and is used when the
pronoun acts as the object of a clause.
Usage depends on whether you are referring
to the subject or object of a sentence.
To test, substitute he or she for who, and
substitute him or her for whom.
Which/That That is a restrictive pronoun, which means
the phrase following it is needed to
understand the preceding statement.
Which introduces a relative clause and is
used when there are qualifiers that may not
be essential.
Lay/Lie Lay requires a direct object (past
tense: laid).
Lie doesnt need an object (past tense:
lay).
Common mistake: People use the past tense
of lay when they mean to use the past tense
of lie.
Nor/Or Nor means and not.
Rule of thumb: Use nor with neither and
or with either.
Affect/Effect Affect is a verb that means to influence or
produce an impression.
Effect is a noun that means the result of.
Since/Because Since refers to time.
Because refers to causation.
Fewer/Less Few and fewer are for things you can
count.
Examples
Who loves you? (She loves me.)
I consulted with a doctor whom I
met in school. (I consulted with
him.)
I dont like buying
clothes that arent made in the
USA.
You should only buy clothes made
locally, which are usually sold at
smaller local businesses.
I lay my head upon the pillow.
Last night, I laid my head upon the
pillow.
The stones lie near the river.
The stones lay near the river,
waiting to be washed.
I bet neither Mike nor Jessie will
like the movie.
I bet either Mike or Jessie will not
like the movie.
That movie affected me like no
other movie has.
I felt no effect from the movie, I
wish it affected me, but I thought it
was boring.
Since I saw you last, Ive gotten a
new job.
Because I saw you, I looked into
that new job you recommended.
I ate fewer calories today than I did
yesterday.
 Less is for hypothetical quantities.
Whether/If Whether expresses a condition where there
are two or more alternatives.
If expresses a condition where there are no
alternatives.
May/Might Both suggest there is a possibility of
something happening, but use may when
theres a greater likelihood and might when
theres little to no chance.
That/Who Whenever you write about people, use who
to refer to them.
Than/Then Than is used when comparing things.
Then is used when referring to time.
Its/Its Its is a contraction of it is.
Its is a possessive pronoun or adjective.
There/Their Their is used when referring to ownership or
/Theyre possession.
Theyre is a contraction of they are.
There is used when referring to location.
Complement/ Complement refers to something that adds
Compliment to or completes something else.
Compliment is something nice said about
you.
Loose/Lose Loose refers to when something is coming
undone.
Lose is the opposite of win or gain.
Exercise on above rules
Use who or whom where appropriate
I need to eat less food so I can
lose weight.
I dont know whether I will meet up
with you later.
I will meet up with you tonight if I
finish my homework.
I may see you later if I can finish
my essay.
I might go to Europe this
summerif I can get over my fear
of flying.
Jane is the girl who lives above
me.
She is much taller than me.
I will see you first and then go to
the store.
Its going to rain tomorrow.
The dog licked its paw.
Their dog was barking so loudly, I
couldnt sleep.
Theyre going to go the movies
later.
There is that sock I was looking
for.
The fresh herbs
really complement the chicken.
She complimented me and said
she liked my shoes.
My pants are so loose, I need a
belt to keep them up.
If I lose more weight, Ill need a
belt to keep my pants up.
1. Do you know ______ did this?
2. With ______ are you going with to the dance?
3. ______ made dinner?
4. ______ did you end up hiring?

Lay versus lie:

5. Which is the correct form of the sentence?

(a) The cat lay in the mud yesterday.
(b) The cat lied in the mud.

6. Which is the correct form of the sentence?

(a) Steve laid down on the floor.
(b) Steve lay down on the floor.

7. Which is the correct form of the sentence?

(a) Yesterday, I laid the towel out in the sun.
(b) Yesterday, i lied the towel out in the sun.

Nor versus or:

8. Which sentence is incorrect?

(a) I dont want that or that.
(b) Neither Alex nor Leslie came to my party.
(c) I want neither pizza or pasta.

9. Which sentence is incorrect?

(a) I cant feel any side effects from the medicine.
(b) He effects you in a negative way.
(c) The dog makes me happy; he affects my mood in a good way.

10. Which sentence is incorrect?

(a) Since you left, I have found a new roommate.
(b) Since you left, i needed to find a new roommate.
(c) Because I like you, Im going to buy you flowers.

Common usage:

11. Which sentence is correct?

(a) There is less water in the lake this year.
(b) There is fewer water in the lake this year.
(c ) The water is fewer this year.

12. Which sentence is correct?

(a) I will go to the party with you whether I can finish my homework.
(b) I will only go to the party with you if I can finish my homework.
(c) If I go to the party depends on if I finish my homework.

Fill in the blank with the correct word:

13. ______ will be no time to rest before going to the movies.

(a) Theyre (b) There (c) Their
14. The bird flapped ______ wings.
(a) its (b) its

15. I love rap way more ______ I love country music.

 (a) than (b) then

16. I think you and Billy are a good couple. You really ______ each other.
(a) complement (b) compliment

17. Jeff is the boy ______ walked me home the other day.
(a) that (b) who

18. That screw is ______. You should hold on to it so you dont ______ it.
(a) loose/lose (b) lose/loose

19. Yes, you ______ see me later. I should be able to get my work done in time.
(a) might (b ) may

20. Make sure to read the second book, ______ is the best one in the series.
(a) which (b) that

ANSWERS :
1. who
2. whom
3. who
4. whom
5. a
6. b
7. a
8. c
9. b
10. b
11. a
12. b
13. b
14. a
15. a
16. a
17. b
18. a
19. b

20. a

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in.html#ixzz471ItBzGJ

One Word Substitution Quiz

1. Belief that war and violence are unjustified
(a) Neutralisation
(b) Pessimism
(c) Naturalisation
(d) Pacifism
2. A group of girls
(a) Bevy
(b) Covey
(c) Troupe
(d) Coterie

3. Causing or ending in death

(a) Fatal
(b) Deadly
(c) Serious
(d) Dangerous

4. A Short poem or speech addressed to the spectators after the conclusion of a drama
(a) Prologue
(b) Dialogue
(c) Epilogue
(d) Monologue

5. One who loves books

(a) Scholar
(b) Bibliographer
(c) Teacher
(d) Bibliophile

6. One who has obstinate and narrow religious views

(a) Theosophist
(b) Bigot
(c) Philosopher
(d) Theologian

7. The sound of the funeral bell

(a) Knell
(b) Spell
(c) Dong
(d) Ding - dong

8. Military waking signal sounded in the morning

(a) Reveille
(b) Lullaby
(c) Anthem
(d) Soprano

9. Study of insects
(a) Ecology
(b) Embryology
(c) Entomology
(d) Biology

10. A person in his seventies

(a) Sexagenarian
 (b) Septuagenarian
(c) Centurion
(d) Patriarch

ANSWERS
1 d
2 a
3 a
4 c
5 d
6 b
7 a
8 a
9 c
10 b

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Easy Way to learn English Vocabulary

Dear Readers,

As you know that Vocabulary is the cornerstone of your English skills. Without a strong
vocabulary, you can not implement the rules of English grammar. So we are providing
vocabulary words with Hindi meaning which will help in upcoming Competitive Exams like SBI
PO 2015, IBPS CWE 2015 and Insurance Exams. Hope you all like the post!

1. Trite
Meaning
{},
Lacking Power To Evoke Interest Through Overuse Or Repetition; Hackneyed
Key
Tight
Use of Key: -
Tight
Synonyms
Common, Hackneyed, Commonplace, Stale
 Usage
this point may now seem obvious and trite.

2. Wistful
Meaning
Wistful - Showing Pensive Sadness,
Key
Wish -Full
Use of Key: -
Wish Fullfill .
Synonyms
Melancholy, Wishful, Contemplative, Pensive, Musing
Usage
a wistful smile

3. Musty
Meaning
, , Having A Stale, Moldy, Or Damp Smell
Key

Use of Key: -
.
Synonyms
Rank, Mold, Dull, Moldy, Heavy
Usage
a dark musty library filled with old books

4. Motley
Meaning
, Various
Key

Use of Key: -
.
Synonyms
Dappled, Dress, Mixture, Party-Colored, Composite
Usage
a motley crew of discontents and zealots

5. Indigenous
Meaning
Native,
Key
India
 Use of Key: -
India .
Synonyms
Inherent, Native, Inborn, Aboriginal, Innate
Usage
the indigenous peoples of Siberia

6. Infallible
Meaning
,
Key
Infall ( Fall )
Use of Key: -
Fall .
Synonyms
Oracular, Inerrable, Indubitable, Unerring
Usage
doctors are not infallible

7. Decrepitude
Meaning

A State Of Deterioration Due To Old Age Or Long Use
Key
Dec (December) Repitude ()
Use of Key: -
My Grandfather Died In December Due To And .
Synonyms
Weakness
Usage
he had passed directly from middle age into decrepitude

8. Gratuitous
Meaning
Given Or Done Free Of Charge,
Key
Great Tute (Tution)
Use of Key: -
Great Free Tution .
Synonyms
Free, Groundless, Baseless, Unnecessary, Unfounded
Usage
gratuitous violence

9. Piety
 Meaning
The Quality Of Being Religious Or Reverent,
Key

Use of Key: -
Ayushi .
Synonyms
Religion, Holiness, Duty, Obedience, Godliness
Usage
acts of piety and charity

10. Upbraid
Meaning
To Reprove Sharply; Reproach,
Key
Bread
Use of Key: -
Bread
Synonyms
Reproach, Contumely, Exprobrate, Censure, Chide
Usage
he was upbraided for his slovenly appearance
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vocabulary_25.html#ixzz471JIgfnK

1. Bedlam (N):- a state of extreme confusion and disorder.

Synonyms: chaos, pandemonium, topsy-turvydom, topsy-turvyness

Uses: As "Bhangarh To Bedlam" hits the stands, author Deepta Roy Chakraverti urges readers to
separate the paranormal from the superstitious

2. Penurious (Adj):- lacking money; excessively unwilling to spend, not having enough money to pay for
necessities.

Synonyms: parsimonious, hard up, impecunious, in straitened circumstances, penniless, pinched

Uses: Warren Buffett, famous multi-billionaire, still drives a cheap sedan, not because he is penurious,
but because luxury cars are gaudy and impractical.

3. Imbibe (V):- to drink or absorb as if drinking; take in, also metaphorically

Synonyms: absorb, draw, soak up, sop up, suck, suck up, take in, take up
Uses: Plato imbibed Socrates teachings to such an extent that he was able to write volumes of work that
he directly attributed, sometimes word for word, to Socrates.

4. Ponderous (Adj):- having great mass and weight and unwieldiness

Synonyms: heavy, lumbering

Uses: Laden with 20 kilograms of college text books, the freshman moved ponderously across the
campus.

5. Diatribe (N):- a strong verbal attack against a person or institution.

Synonyms: fulmination, rebuke, remonstrate, reprimand, reproof, scold, take to task, trounce, vituperate

Uses: Steves mom launched into a diatribe during the PTA meeting, contending that the school was little
more than a daycare in which students stare at the wall and teachers stare at the chalkboard.

6. Turpitude (N):- a corrupt or depraved or degenerate act or practice.

Synonyms: depravity, corruption, degeneracy, depravation, putrefaction

Uses: During his reign, Caligula indulged in unspeakable sexual practices, so it is not surprising that he
will forever be remembered for his turpitude.

7. Quid pro Quo (N):- something for something; that which a party receives (or is promised) in return for
something he does or gives or promises.

Synonyms: quid

Uses: Rajiv Gandhi allowed Bhopal gas tragedy accused Warren Anderson, the former Union Carbide
chief, to leave the country as a quid pro quo for the release of the son of a family friend Adil Shariyar.

8. Byzantine (Adj):- intricate and complex

Synonyms: convoluted, involved, knotty, tangled, tortuous

Uses: Getting a drivers license is not simply a matter of taking a test; the regulations and procedures are
so byzantine that many have found themselves at the mercy of the Department of Motor Vehicles.

9. Expunge (V):- to eliminate completely; remove by erasing or crossing out or as if by drawing a line.

Synonyms: excise, scratch, strike

Uses: When I turned 18, all of the shoplifting and jaywalking charges were expunged from my criminal
record.

10. Anathema (N):- a detested person; the source of somebody's hate; a formal ecclesiastical curse
accompanied by excommunication.

Synonyms: condemnation, curse, execration

Uses: Hundreds of years ago, Galileo was anathema to the church; today the church is anathema to
some on the left side of the political spectrum.

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wordlist_12.html#ixzz47hMxafL7