English Olympiad Previous Year Paper - 1 | Olympiad Preparation for Class 10 PDF Download

Ans: (a)

• The correct phrase is "in shock," which means to be very surprised or upset.
• Using "in" indicates being enveloped or surrounded by a feeling, which fits here.
• Other options like "on," "at," and "of" do not correctly convey the intended meaning.
• This expression is commonly used to describe a sudden emotional reaction to unexpected news.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word to use here is "Who", as it refers to a person.
• "Whom" is used for the object of a verb or preposition, which doesn't fit this context.
• "Whose" indicates possession, and "Which" is used for choices or categories.
• Thus, "Who" is the appropriate choice for asking about identity.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is believes because it agrees with the singular subject "one of those elderly women."
• In English, when using "one of those," the verb should match the singular form, hence "believes" is appropriate.
• The other options do not fit grammatically with the subject of the sentence.
• Understanding subject-verb agreement is key in constructing correct sentences.

Ans: (c)

• Parricide refers specifically to the act of killing one's own parents, which is increasingly recognized as a serious crime in modern society.
• Unlike homicide, which is the general term for killing, parricide is more specific.
• Regicide is the killing of a king, and fratricide refers to killing a brother, making them irrelevant to this context.
• The rise in parricide cases highlights troubling trends in familial relationships and societal issues.

Ans: (b)

• In India, many parents utilize matrimonial websites to find suitable partners for their children.
• These websites are specifically designed for arranged marriages, where families play a significant role in the selection process.
• Matrimony refers to the state of being married, but the term matrimonial is more directly related to the process of finding a spouse.
• Other options like matriarchy and matricidal do not relate to marriage or partner selection.

Ans: (b)

• Individuals with open space phobia tend to feel safer and more comfortable inside their homes.
• They usually avoid going outside unless it is absolutely necessary, such as in emergency situations.
• The correct answer is "in" because it indicates being inside the home, which aligns with their preference.
• Options like "at," "on," and "by" do not convey the same sense of being enclosed or protected as "in" does.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "he was unsuccessful in his first attempt" indicates a setback.
• The word "nonetheless" suggests that despite this setback, he continued to be determined.
• This shows his perseverance and commitment to succeeding in the future.
• Using "nonetheless" effectively connects his failure with his resolve to keep trying.

Ans: (d)

• In this sentence, "the" is used because it refers to a specific rain that occurred last night.
• "an" is used before "umbrella" because it starts with a vowel sound, making it the correct choice.
• Using "the" indicates that the rain is known or specific, while "an" is appropriate for the umbrella since it is one of many.
• Thus, the correct answer is "the, an".

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is his because the context indicates that the items donated did not belong to him.
• It is important to understand that ownership is key here; if the items were not his, he should not have donated them.
• The other options (hers, yours, ours) do not fit the context of the sentence, as they refer to different owners.
• Thus, the sentence makes sense only when we say the items were not his to give away.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is "the, the" because we are referring to a specific magazine, "Saturday Review," and a specific editor.
• Using "the" indicates that both the magazine and the editor are known to the reader.
• In this context, "the" is necessary to show that we are talking about particular entities, not just any magazine or editor.
• Options (a), (b), and (d) do not fit because they either use incorrect articles or lack specificity.

Ans: (b)

• The correct answer is silhouetted, which is the past tense of the verb silhouette.
• This means that the taller building created a dark outline against the light of the evening.
• In this context, it describes how the building affected the appearance of the room.
• Using the past tense indicates that this action has already occurred.

Ans: (a)

• In this context, the phrase "barred from" means that individuals with criminal records should not be allowed to participate in politics.
• This is important to maintain clean and fair elections, as having a criminal background could lead to corruption or unethical behavior.
• The other options do not correctly convey the idea of preventing someone from participating.
• Thus, the correct choice is (a) "barred from".

Ans: (d)

• The correct phrase is pinned up against, which means he was pressed or held against the wall.
• This action was performed by the police officers as a response to him jumping a red light.
• Being pinned up against indicates a physical restraint or control by the officers.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning or context as the correct answer.

Ans: (c)

• The word stoic describes someone who can endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.
• In this context, it means that the aunt handles her troubles quietly and does not seek sympathy or assistance from others.
• Options like perspicacious (insightful) and magnanimous (generous) do not fit the description of someone who remains silent in their struggles.
• Thus, the correct answer is stoic, as it perfectly captures her ability to bear difficulties without outward expression.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "was letting on" means he was not fully revealing his knowledge.
• Option (a) is correct because it fits the context of someone hiding their true understanding.
• Options (b), (c), and (d) do not convey the same meaning or grammatical structure.
• This statement suggests that he had more information than he chose to share.

Ans: (d)

• The phrase 'read between the lines' refers to understanding the hidden meaning or subtext in a statement.
• It suggests that there is more to the message than what is clearly expressed.
• This idiom encourages readers to interpret the underlying messages that are not directly stated.
• Thus, the correct answer is to look for a meaning that is implied rather than explicitly stated.

Ans: (c)

• The correct phrase is should have, which indicates a missed opportunity or regret about not doing something.
• In this context, it suggests that the speaker believes they should have taken the chance to visit.
• Must have implies certainty, while shall have is more about future intentions, and might have suggests possibility, which do not fit here.
• Thus, should have is the best choice as it conveys the idea of a past opportunity that was not taken.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is May, which indicates a possibility or permission.
• Using May suggests that it is possible for you to continue being an influence.
• Other options like Should imply obligation, while Might and Could suggest less certainty.
• Thus, May is the most appropriate choice for expressing potential influence.

Ans: (a)

• The statement reflects the current belief of the Minister regarding children's rights.
• Option (a) maintains the present tense, indicating that this right is applicable now.
• Option (b) changes the tense to past, which is incorrect.
• Option (c) implies a requirement rather than a right, which alters the meaning.
• Option (d) contains a grammatical error with "every children," making it incorrect.

Ans: (c)

• In reported speech, we often change the tense of the original statement.
• Sammy's original question is in the past tense, so we need to use the past perfect tense.
• Option (c) "what he had done to be punished in class" correctly reflects this change.
• The other options either maintain the present tense or do not correctly reflect the past context.

Ans: (b)

• Supersede means to take the place of something, which fits perfectly in the context of technology replacing manual work.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning: "overcame" suggests defeating, "subjugated" implies domination, and "contaminating" refers to making something impure.
• In essence, as technology advances, it is likely to replace or supersede traditional manual tasks.
• This reflects the ongoing trend of automation and innovation in various industries.

Ans: (a)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is is because "neither" refers to a singular subject.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is had been because it indicates an action that was completed in the past before another past event (the sale of the charity club).
• This form shows that the speaker was part of the team for a period that ended when the club was sold.
• Using has been or have been would imply a connection to the present, which is not the case here.
• Was been is grammatically incorrect and does not fit the context.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is called out, had been. This means he publicly addressed or confronted the people who had been harassing his parents.
• The phrase had been indicates that the harassment was ongoing in the past before he called them out.
• Using called out shows that he took a stand against the behavior, which is important in this context.
• Other options either change the tense or the meaning, making them incorrect.

Ans: (a)

• The word Gobs refers to a large quantity or number of something.
• The correct synonym is Myriad, which also means a countless or extremely great number.
• Bounded suggests limits, while Debt and Ditch do not relate to quantity.
• Thus, Myriad is the best choice as it captures the essence of abundance similar to Gobs.

Ans: (c)

• The word prodigious means something that is extraordinary or remarkably large.
• Among the options, inordinate is the best synonym as it also implies something that is excessive or beyond normal limits.
• In contrast, conventional and unexceptional suggest normality, while miniature indicates something small, which is the opposite of prodigious.
• Thus, the correct choice is inordinate, as it captures the essence of being remarkably large or excessive.

Ans: (d)

• The word gauche means lacking social grace or sensitivity.
• The correct antonym is tactful, which means having a sense of what is appropriate or considerate in dealing with others.
• Options like crude, inept, and uncouth all suggest a lack of refinement or social skills, which is the opposite of being tactful.
• Thus, tactful is the best choice as it represents the opposite quality of being socially adept.

Ans: (b)

• The word anecdotal refers to information based on personal accounts rather than facts or research.
• The correct antonym is scientific, which implies a methodical and evidence-based approach.
• Options like unbroken, digressive, and picaresque do not convey the opposite meaning of anecdotal.
• Thus, scientific stands out as the term that contrasts with the subjective nature of anecdotal evidence.

Ans: (b)

• The correct spelling is Senescence, which describes the process of aging and the decline in biological functions over time.
• Option (a) and (c) are incorrect spellings that do not represent the term.
• Option (d) is also a misspelling and does not convey the intended meaning.
• Understanding this term is important in fields like biology and gerontology, which study aging and its effects.

Ans: (a)

• The correct spelling is Geriatric, which pertains to the care and treatment of older adults.
• This term is derived from the Greek word "geras," meaning old age.
• Understanding this word is important in fields like medicine and social work, where professionals deal with aging populations.
• Incorrect options like Giriatric, Gereatric, and Gereatriec do not represent the correct term.

Ans: (a)

• The miracle of human consciousness is a complex topic that scientists are still trying to fully understand.
• It involves how we think, feel, and perceive the world, which remains largely mysterious.
• While other options mention interesting phenomena, they do not present the same level of scientific bafflement as human consciousness.
• Thus, the correct answer is the one that highlights the mystery surrounding our own awareness and thought processes.

Ans: (c)

• The word transcendent refers to something that goes beyond ordinary limits or experiences.
• It implies a state that is superior or elevated compared to what is normal.
• In contrast, the other options like limitations and consciousness do not convey this sense of surpassing normality.
• Thus, transcendent is the correct choice as it captures the essence of being above typical human experience.

Ans: (a)

• The scientists discovered that the brain creates new proteins when we recall memories. This process is essential for memory formation and retention.
• New proteins help in strengthening the connections between brain cells, which is crucial for remembering information.
• This finding highlights the dynamic nature of the brain and its ability to adapt and change as we learn.
• In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the findings of the research on memory.

Ans: (d)

• Individuals with extraordinary talents can showcase their abilities in various ways.
• They might perform quick mental calculations in mathematics, fix complex devices without prior training, or play long compositions after hearing them only once.
• All these examples illustrate the diverse ways in which gifted people can exhibit their miraculous skills.
• Thus, the correct answer is All of these, as it encompasses all the mentioned abilities.

Ans: (d)

• The question asks for examples of miracles of life force in nature.
• Option (a) describes camouflage and nest building, which are indeed remarkable but not the only examples.
• Option (b) highlights the scent recognition ability of eels, showcasing a unique natural talent.
• Option (c) mentions male moths' ability to detect females from a long distance, another impressive natural phenomenon.
• Since all options illustrate different miracles of life, the correct answer is (d) All of these.

Ans: (b)

• The passage discusses aggression and how to manage it effectively.
• Option (b) is the best choice as it directly relates to strategies for dealing with aggressive behavior.
• Other options focus on negative people or spirituality, which are not the main focus of the passage.
• Thus, the correct title reflects the content about handling aggression.

Ans: (c)

• Revanche refers to a desire for revenge or to regain something lost, often in a competitive context.
• The correct answer is Retaliation, which means to take action against someone in response to an injury or offense.
• Options like Legitimate and Protection do not convey the same sense of seeking revenge.
• Thus, Retaliation is the best match for the meaning of revanche.

Ans: (b)

• Statement B is incorrect because it suggests that most individuals have a reason for their negativity, which is not true. Many people exhibit negativity without a clear reason.
• Statement A highlights that perspectives vary, indicating that views on negativity can differ among individuals.
• Statement C points out that aggressive individuals often seek validation, feeling significant when acknowledged.
• Statement D emphasizes that pursuing spirituality can lead to personal growth and improvement in one’s circumstances.

Ans: (d)

• To effectively manage aggressive people, it is important to trust our higher selves for guidance and listen to our inner voice. These approaches help us remain calm and composed.
• Responding with ego can escalate the situation, so it is better to avoid confrontation.
• By choosing options A and B, we can maintain a more peaceful interaction and potentially diffuse the anger.
• Thus, the best way to deal with such situations is to combine both trusting our higher selves and listening to our inner voice.

Ans: (d)

• A written letter allows you to express your thoughts clearly and thoughtfully.
• It shows respect for the other person's feelings while maintaining your boundaries.
• Using this method can convey your message with love and compassion, which is important in sensitive situations.
• Other options like a call or visit may lead to direct confrontation, which you might want to avoid.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "would like to" indicates a desire or willingness to do something.
• In this context, Sammy is expressing a preference to offer suggestions.
• Options like "may" and "could" imply uncertainty, which doesn't fit the intention here.
• Thus, "would like to" is the most appropriate choice for expressing a clear intention.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word to use here is further, which means to a greater distance or extent.
• In this context, Elvie is expressing that they do not want to walk any more distance because they are tired.
• Fare refers to the cost of travel, while farthest is a superlative form that is not needed here.
• Far is an adverb but does not fit the sentence structure as well as further does.

Ans: (a)

• The correct phrase is "will be detailed," which indicates that the results will be explained or described in detail.
• Using "might be detail" or "could be detail" is incorrect because they do not fit grammatically in this context.
• "Should detailed" is also incorrect as it lacks the necessary verb form.
• Thus, "will be detailed" is the only option that correctly conveys the intended meaning.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase "injurious to other people" means that lies can harm others.
• The expression "dangerous effect on you" indicates that lying can negatively impact the liar.
• Using "to" and "on" correctly fits the context of the sentence.
• Other options do not convey the same meaning or grammatical correctness.

Ans: (b)

• The term swan-song refers to a final work or performance by an artist, often seen as their best or most significant. In this context, it indicates that Rita has bought a notable piece from her favorite author.
• Loud music, frog’s croak, and dove writing do not relate to literary works or authors, making them incorrect options.
• Rita feels lucky because she has acquired something special from her favorite author, which is represented by the term swan-song.

Ans: (d)

• The term cavalier refers to a dismissive or carefree attitude, which fits the context of the question.
• Teenagers displaying a cavalier attitude may not take the situation seriously, potentially leading to threats against teachers.
• In contrast, options like naive, ingenious, and fond do not convey the same sense of disregard or lack of seriousness.
• Thus, the correct answer is (d) cavalier, as it accurately describes the troubling behavior reported.

Ans: (d)

• Sycophants are known for their tendency to flatter or ingratiate themselves with those in power.
• They often do this to gain favor or advantages, making them true people-pleasers.
• In contrast, the other options like Chauvinists, Viragos, and Dilettantes do not fit this description.
• Thus, the correct answer is Sycophants, as they embody the behavior of seeking to please others for personal gain.

Ans: (d)

• The word iniquity refers to immoral or grossly unfair behavior.
• Among the options, infamy means being known for a bad quality or deed, which aligns with the meaning of iniquity.
• In contrast, virtue, morality, and rectitude all imply good or ethical behavior, making them incorrect choices.
• Thus, the correct synonym for iniquity is infamy.

Ans: (b)

• The word diatribe refers to a bitter and abusive speech or writing.
• To find the antonym, we look for a word that means the opposite.
• Recommendation suggests a positive suggestion or advice, which contrasts with the negativity of a diatribe.
• Other options like invective, castigation, and revile all imply criticism or negative remarks, making them not suitable as antonyms.

Ans: (a)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is propensity, which means a natural tendency to behave in a certain way.
• In this context, it indicates that Jane has a strong habit of avoiding facts.
• The other options do not fit well: proposition refers to a suggestion, prospect means a possibility, and commitment implies a promise or dedication.
• Thus, the sentence makes sense with "propensity," highlighting Jane's behavior.