English Olympiad Previous Year Paper - 3 | English Olympiad for Class 8 PDF Download

Ans: (b)

• The correct answer is affidavit, which is a legal document that requires a signature.
• In this context, the teacher is asking for a specific document that needs parental approval.
• Options like process and postbox do not fit the requirement of needing a signature.
• Thus, the only suitable choice is affidavit, as it is commonly used in legal and formal situations.

Ans: (c)

• The old man emphasizes that every action has consequences.
• This means that whatever you do will lead to certain results, whether good or bad.
• It's important for the youngsters to understand this concept to make wise decisions.
• Choosing wisely can help them avoid negative outcomes in their lives.

Ans: (d) 

• The correct word to complete the sentence is brightly, which is an adverb describing how the threads shine.
• Brightening is a verb form, while brightness and brightliness are nouns, which do not fit the context.
• In this sentence, we need an adverb to modify the verb "shine," and brightly serves that purpose perfectly.
• Thus, the sentence correctly reads: "The gossamer threads shine brightly in the sunlight."

Ans: (a)

• Corruption and mismanagement of state funds are serious offenses.
• The term "arrested" indicates that the officials were taken into custody due to their actions.
• Options like "protected" and "appreciated" do not fit the context of wrongdoing.
• Thus, the correct answer is that the officials "were arrested" for their misconduct.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "worn out" means that the toys have become damaged or exhausted from frequent use.
• In this context, "ragged" indicates that the toys are in a poor condition, which aligns with being "worn out".
• Other options like "worn in" or "worn up" do not convey the same meaning of being used to the point of being unusable.
• Thus, "worn out" is the most appropriate choice to describe the toys' condition.

Ans: (d)

• The phrase "knuckled down" means to start working hard or to focus on a task.
• In this context, it indicates that she began to put in effort to clean the messy room.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning of hard work or focus.
• Thus, "knuckled down" is the correct choice as it fits the situation of cleaning up a messy room.

Ans: (c)

• The correct phrase is popped out, which means the kitten suddenly emerged from the bag.
• Using popped with or popped aside does not convey the same meaning of coming out.
• Popped between is also incorrect as it suggests the kitten is coming from a space between two things, not from inside the bag.
• Thus, popped out is the only option that accurately describes the action of the kitten leaving the bag.

Ans: (b)

• The correct preposition to use with "traveled" in this context is to. It indicates the direction or destination of the journey.
• When we say "went to," it means they are heading towards a specific place, which in this case is a hill station.
• Using "on," "in," or "at" would not correctly convey the idea of traveling to a location.
• Thus, the sentence correctly reads: "Our neighbours went to a hill station for the summer vacation."

Ans: (d)

• The correct preposition to use here is with. It indicates that the door has a problem caused by termites.
• Using on, at, or of would not correctly convey the idea of infestation.
• Infested with is a common phrase used to describe something that is overrun by pests.
• Thus, the sentence correctly states that the door has termites present in it.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "difference of opinion" is a common expression used to indicate that people have varying views or beliefs.
• In this context, "of" is the correct preposition that connects "difference" with "opinion".
• Using "at", "on", or "by" would not convey the intended meaning in this phrase.
• Thus, the correct choice is "of", which accurately reflects the relationship between the difference and the opinions held by the board members.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is around. This indicates the car is moving in a circular path at the corner.
• Using around makes sense because it describes the action of turning at a corner.
• Other options like of and with do not fit the context of turning a car.
• Outside is also incorrect as it does not convey the action of turning at a corner.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "as a matter of fact" is a common expression used to emphasize the truth of a statement.
• In this context, "of" is the correct preposition that connects the idea of the argument to the fact being discussed.
• Using "on," "to," or "in" would not fit the established phrase, making them incorrect choices.
• Thus, the correct answer is "of," which maintains the meaning of the statement.

Ans: (d)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is unanimously, which means that the team worked together in agreement.
• This indicates that all members of the team were in full support of the project and collaborated effectively.
• The other options do not fit the context, as they suggest negative or unrelated actions.
• Thus, unanimously is the best choice, showing a cohesive effort towards the project completion.

Ans: (b)

• In this context, prudent means being wise or careful in making decisions.
• Picturesque refers to something visually attractive, which doesn't fit the context of decision-making.
• Plinth is a base or platform, unrelated to decisions.
• Principle refers to a fundamental truth or proposition, not a quality of decisions.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is had forged because it indicates an action that was completed in the past before another past action.
• In this context, it shows that the thief had already replaced the new currency notes with fake ones.
• The other options do not fit grammatically or contextually in this sentence.
• Forging and has forging are incorrect forms, while will forged is not a proper tense.

Ans: (b)

• The correct answer is has been working because it indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present.
• Using have been working is incorrect here as it does not agree with the singular subject "Peter."
• The option are working is also incorrect because it suggests a present continuous action that does not fit the context.
• Lastly, is worked is grammatically incorrect as it does not convey the intended meaning.

Ans: (d) 

• The correct phrase is "can become," which indicates the possibility of a foreign citizen obtaining naturalised citizenship in India.
• This process requires a minimum stay of 12 years in the country.
• Options (a), (b), and (c) are grammatically incorrect and do not convey the intended meaning.
• Thus, the only correct option is (d) "can become," which accurately reflects the requirement for naturalisation.

Ans: (c)

• The correct word here is convoluted, which means to twist or turn something into a complicated form.
• In this context, it suggests that she made her argument complex based on her knowledge and assumptions.
• The other options do not fit the meaning: convicted relates to a legal judgment, convince means to persuade, and cracked implies breaking something.
• Thus, convoluted is the best choice as it accurately describes the nature of her argument.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is The because it refers to a specific landmark, the Eiffel Tower, which is well-known and unique.
• Using A or An would imply that it is one of many towers, which is not the case here.
• Since the Eiffel Tower is a specific structure, we use the definite article The to indicate that.
• Thus, the correct choice is The as it identifies the Eiffel Tower uniquely.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase heart and soul refers to doing something with complete sincerity and dedication.
• It implies putting in your full effort and being genuine in your actions.
• Options (a), (b), and (d) do not capture this meaning, making (c) the correct choice.
• Thus, when someone does something with their heart and soul, they are doing it very sincerely.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "In spite of" indicates that something happened despite another factor. Here, it shows that the farmer's hard work did not lead to a successful harvest.
• Using "While" would suggest a contrast but not convey the same meaning of overcoming a challenge.
• "Hence" implies a conclusion, which does not fit the context of the sentence.
• "Yet" suggests a contradiction but lacks the emphasis on the hard work being overshadowed by the rainfall.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase "so that" indicates a purpose or intention.
• In this context, it shows that following traffic rules is done to prevent accidents.
• Other options do not convey the same meaning of purpose.
• Thus, the correct choice is "so that," as it clearly connects the action of following rules with the goal of safety.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is and, which connects two qualities of the subject.
• Agile means quick and light in movement, while strong indicates physical power.
• Using and shows that he possesses both characteristics simultaneously.
• Other options like or suggest a choice, which doesn't fit the context, while moreover and next do not appropriately connect the two traits.

Ans: (d)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is Although. This word is used to show a contrast between two ideas.
• In this case, it indicates that even though he was late, he still managed to finish the test on time.
• Using But or Also would not correctly convey the contrast needed in this sentence.
• Thus, Although is the best choice to express this relationship.

Ans: (b)

• The word Cite means to mention or refer to something, especially in a formal context.
• The correct synonym is Quote, which also means to repeat or refer to someone else's words.
• Recollect means to remember something, which is not the same as citing.
• Heckle refers to interrupting a speaker with questions or comments, and Conceal means to hide something, both of which are unrelated to the meaning of cite.

Ans: (c)

• The word "assimilate" refers to the process of absorbing information or ideas into one's understanding.
• It involves taking in new knowledge and integrating it with what you already know.
• While "analyze," "assemble," and "organize" suggest different actions, they do not capture the essence of absorption of information.
• Thus, the correct answer is (c) Absorb, as it aligns with the meaning of assimilate.

Ans: (d)
The antonym of the word “dorsal” is “ventral”. The word “dorsal” means “on the back or posterior side of a body” while “ventral” means “on the front or anterior side of the body”.

Ans: (b)
The antonym of the word “erudite” is “uneducated”. The word “erudite” means “having or showing great knowledge or understanding” while “uneducated” means “lacking knowledge or education”.

Ans: (c)

• The word arbitrary describes a system or plan that is based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.
• It is often used to indicate that something is unfair or lacks a solid basis.
• Understanding the correct spelling is important for clear communication, especially in legal or formal contexts.
• Options like Arbittery and Orbitary are incorrect and do not convey the intended meaning.

Ans: (b)

• The word persuade means to convince someone to believe or do something.
• It is important to use the correct spelling, which is persuade, not the other variations.
• Options like presuade and persuvade are incorrect spellings.
• Understanding the meaning helps in remembering the correct spelling.

Ans: (b)

• The passage discusses the challenges faced by teenagers, particularly focusing on stress.
• It provides insights on how to manage and overcome these stressors.
• Thus, the most fitting title is about Teenage Stress and strategies to deal with it.
• Other options, while relevant, do not capture the specific focus on teenagers and their unique experiences with stress.

Ans: (d)

• All of these statements are true regarding teenagers and their interactions with help and stress.
• Teenagers often seldom seek help and may not recognize the support available to them.
• School is a significant place where they experience and manage stress.
• Additionally, guidance counselors in schools are there to assist them, making option (d) the correct choice.

Ans: (c)

• The passage highlights that school, life, parents, and friends demand a lot of time from teenagers, which contributes to their stress.
• It also mentions difficulties with schoolwork as a significant factor.
• While finding a job and not having time for storybooks are mentioned, they are not the primary causes of stress according to the passage.
• Thus, the correct answer includes the factors from points (i) and (ii) only.

Ans: (d)

• The word perspective means a particular way of looking at something.
• It is often referred to as a point of view, which can vary from person to person.
• Understanding different perspectives can help in appreciating various opinions and ideas.
• In contrast, the other options like factual, empirical, and statistical do not capture the essence of perspective.

Ans: (b)

• The passage emphasizes the importance of communication in alleviating stress.
• It suggests that teenagers should discuss their stress with guidance counsellors and teachers for support.
• Options (i) and (iv) do not focus on professional help, while (v) suggests stopping reading, which is not beneficial.
• Thus, the best choices are (ii) and (iii) as they promote seeking help from trusted adults.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase ‘when humanity first stepped into the light’ uses imagery to create a vivid picture in the reader's mind.
• It evokes a sense of awakening or enlightenment, suggesting a significant moment in human history.
• Imagery helps to convey emotions and ideas through descriptive language, making the concept more relatable.
• In this case, it paints a symbolic image of progress and discovery.

Ans: (d)

• The Multivac is noted for its self-adjusting and self-correcting capabilities.
• Options 1, 3, and 4 are not mentioned as characteristics in the passage.
• Thus, the correct answer includes only options 2 and 5.
• This means the Multivac can adapt and fix itself, making it efficient and reliable.

Ans: (c) 

• The correct answer is (c) because it indicates that by 2061, humans had developed a comprehensive understanding of complex systems.
• This suggests a significant advancement in human knowledge and capability.
• Options (a), (b), and (d) do not accurately reflect the state of human understanding at that time.
• Overall, it highlights the evolution of human intellect and the ability to comprehend intricate concepts.

Ans: (c)

• The description of Multivac's face is very distinctive.
• It is referred to as cold, clicking, and flashing, indicating a mechanical and imposing presence.
• The phrase "miles and miles of face" suggests that it is vast and complex.
• This characterization emphasizes the technological and intimidating nature of Multivac.

Ans: (b)

• This line suggests that machines, like humans, also require rest after working hard.
• The phrase "earned its vacation" indicates that Multivac, a machine, has worked sufficiently to deserve a break.
• The boys' appreciation shows their understanding of the importance of rest for both machines and people.
• Overall, it highlights the idea that even technology needs time to recharge, similar to how we do.

Ans: (b)

• The correct phrase is "have to hurry," which indicates a necessity to act quickly.
• "Has to hurry" is incorrect because it does not match the plural subject "we."
• "Was hurried" suggests someone else is doing the action, which is not the case here.
• "Hurrying" is a present participle and does not fit the sentence structure.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "note down" means to write something for future reference, which is appropriate for homework.
• "Turn off" refers to stopping a device, which does not relate to homework.
• "Bring in" suggests physically bringing something, but it doesn't fit the context of completing homework.
• "Go on" implies continuing an action, which is not relevant here.

Ans: (c)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is always, which indicates a consistent desire over time.
• Always suggests that Allan has had this wish for a long time, not just occasionally.
• The other options do not fit the context of expressing a continuous desire.
• For example, "anytimes" and "accordingly" do not convey the same meaning as "always".

Ans: (d)

• The correct phrase is looking for, which means the dog was searching for its owner.
• Wandering implies that the dog was moving around without a specific direction, which fits with looking for someone.
• The other options do not convey the idea of searching; for example, looking at means to observe something, not to search.
• Thus, the best choice that completes the sentence meaningfully is looking for.

Ans: (c)

• In this sentence, Andrew expresses his fear of something that happens in the dark.
• The correct form to use here is "sleeping," which indicates the action of being asleep.
• Options like "sleep" and "slept" do not fit grammatically in this context.
• Thus, "sleeping" is the right choice as it aligns with his fear of being in the dark.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "taken around" means to be shown different parts of a place, which is exactly what happens during a campus orientation.
• In this context, freshers are being guided through the university to familiarize themselves with the environment.
• Options (a) and (b) do not fit the context of showing someone around.
• Option (d) "taken in" is also incorrect as it does not convey the idea of a guided tour.

Ans: (c)

• According to modern psychological theories, children begin to individuate at around the age of 11 or 12. This means they start to develop their own identities and become more independent.
• This process involves moving away from childhood dependence and forming a unique sense of self.
• Individuation is a crucial part of growing up, as it helps children understand their own thoughts and feelings separate from others.
• Other options like generalise, indicate, and establish do not accurately describe this developmental stage.

Ans: (a) 

• The word affinity refers to a natural liking or connection to something.
• The correct synonym is attachment, which means a strong emotional bond or connection.
• Options like vacant and distant do not convey a similar meaning.
• Thus, attachment is the best choice as it aligns closely with the meaning of affinity.

Ans: (b)

• The word boisterous means noisy, energetic, and cheerful.
• The correct antonym is quiet, which means making little or no noise.
• Loud and turbulent are similar in meaning to boisterous, while impatient does not relate to noise.
• Thus, the opposite of boisterous is clearly quiet.

Ans: (a) 

• The phrase "gave a piece of his mind" means to express one's feelings, often in a strong or angry way.
• In this context, the old man was frustrated with the loud music, so he likely told the neighbours how he felt.
• Options (b), (c), and (d) do not fit the context of expressing frustration or opinion.
• Thus, the correct answer is (a) as it conveys the intended meaning of the conversation.