English Olympiad Previous Year Paper - 1 | English Olympiad for Class 8 PDF Download

Ans: (c)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is pursue. This means to actively work towards achieving your career goals.
• Inspire means to motivate others, which doesn't fit here.
• Arouse refers to stirring up feelings or emotions, not applicable to a career context.
• Manage implies overseeing something, but it doesn't convey the same commitment as pursue.

Ans: (d)

• In this sentence, the word boasted means to talk with pride about something.
• Jatin is expressing his confidence in his ability to speak three languages fluently.
• The other options do not fit the context of someone proudly stating their skills.
• Thus, the correct choice is boasted, as it conveys the right meaning of self-praise.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "called off" means that the match was cancelled due to the heavy rain.
• Option (b) "set aside" does not imply cancellation, but rather putting something on hold.
• Option (c) "broken off" suggests a sudden end, which is not the same as cancellation.
• Option (d) "postponed" means to delay, but the context indicates it was cancelled, not just delayed.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase "had been finished" indicates that the hotel construction was completed before the parking issue arose.
• Using "was being finished" suggests an ongoing action, which doesn't fit the context.
• "Was finishing" implies it was still in progress, and "is finishing" suggests it is currently happening, both of which are incorrect.
• Thus, "had been finished" is the correct choice as it clearly shows the completion of the hotel construction.

Ans: (b) 

• The correct answer is gives because it is in the present tense, which is used for actions that are expected to happen in the future.
• In this context, we are waiting for the invigilator to perform the action of giving the question papers.
• Using will give or would give would not fit grammatically in this sentence structure.
• Thus, gives is the appropriate choice to indicate a future action that is dependent on the present situation.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase "often buried with their bones" suggests that something is placed underground or hidden away.
• In this context, "buried" means to be placed in the ground, which aligns with the idea of bones being interred.
• Other options like "covered" or "concealed" do not convey the same meaning of being placed underground.
• Thus, the correct answer is "buried," as it accurately reflects the action described.

Ans: (d)

• The phrase "could not remember" indicates a past action.
• The correct form is "had deposited," which shows that the action of depositing happened before he forgot.
• Options like "will deposit" and "is depositing" refer to future and present actions, which do not fit the context.
• Thus, "had deposited" is the only option that correctly matches the past memory of the old man.

Ans: (c)

• In this context, the phrase "went through" means that Vinit experienced or underwent many positive changes.
• The other options do not fit well with the idea of experiencing changes.
• "Went on" suggests continuation, "went under" implies a negative situation, and "went over" does not convey the same meaning.
• Thus, "went through" is the correct choice as it accurately describes Vinit's experience of change.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is "The" because it specifies a particular type of intelligence that is being discussed. In this context, "The" indicates that we are talking about intelligence in general, which is recognized and acknowledged.
• Using "A" or "An" would imply that we are referring to one of many types of intelligence, which does not fit the statement.
• "No article" would make the sentence grammatically incorrect, as it would lack a necessary subject.
• Thus, "The" is the most appropriate choice to convey the intended meaning.

Ans: (c) 

• The word might indicates a possibility, suggesting that the introduction of a new dress code is not certain but could happen.
• Has implies certainty, which does not fit the context of a potential future action.
• Shall is more definitive and formal, which is not appropriate here.
• Could also suggests possibility but is less commonly used in this context compared to might.

Ans: (a)

• The word erroneous means incorrect or mistaken. In this context, the professor is indicating that the description in the journal is not accurate.
• Prodigy refers to a person with exceptional talents, which does not fit the context of describing events.
• Substantiate means to provide evidence to support a claim, which is not relevant here.
• Retrocede means to go back or withdraw, which also does not apply to the description of events.

Ans: (d)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is "or" because it presents a choice between two possibilities: repairing the mobile or buying a new one.
• Using "or" indicates that if the mobile cannot be repaired, then the alternative is to buy a new one.
• Other options like "nor," "and," or "but" do not fit the context of presenting a choice.
• Thus, the sentence logically connects the uncertainty of repair with the option of purchasing a new mobile.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is "The, the" because we use "The" to refer to a specific event and a specific place. In this case, the debate competition and the auditorium are both known to the speaker and listener.
• "The" is used before nouns that are specific or already known, while "a" and "an" are used for non-specific nouns.
• Since both the competition and the auditorium are specific, "The, the" is the appropriate choice.

Ans: (c)

• In this context, the term black sheep refers to a family member who is considered an outcast or someone who does not fit in due to their actions.
• Uncle Robinson's imprisonment for forgery makes him the black sheep of the family, as he has brought shame or disrepute.
• The other options like lion head, wild tiger, and black buck do not convey the same meaning of being an outcast.
• Thus, the correct answer is black sheep, highlighting his negative role in the family dynamics.

Ans: (d)

• The term humiliating describes conditions that cause a loss of dignity or self-respect.
• In this context, it indicates that the environment is so negative that it affects their self-esteem.
• Options like difficulty, blessed, and good do not convey the same sense of degradation.
• Thus, humiliating is the only option that accurately fits the description of the conditions mentioned.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is had been studying because it indicates an action that started in the past and continued up to another point in the past.
• This form shows that he was engaged in his studies for a duration of two years before the time they met.
• Using had been studying emphasizes the ongoing nature of his studies during that time period.
• Other options do not convey the same meaning of continuity over the two years.

Ans: (d)

• In this sentence, the blank is looking for a word that refers to things that might annoy or irritate you.
• The correct answer is provocations, as it means actions that provoke a reaction, often anger.
• Other options like temptations, persons, and distractions do not fit the context of losing your temper.
• It's important to stay calm and not let these provocations affect your mood.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is was because it refers to the singular noun "library."
• In English, when we talk about a single entity, we use was instead of were.
• Thus, the sentence correctly states that the library was burnt during the agitation.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "has to" indicates a necessity or obligation for the mother to go to the market.
• In this context, since guests are arriving, it is important for her to buy groceries.
• Other options like "is" and "was" do not convey the same sense of obligation.
• "Need to" is incorrect in this context as it changes the meaning slightly.

Ans: (d)

• In this sentence, the word could indicates a possibility in the past. Adil had the ability to buy the bicycle but lacked the necessary money.
• The other options do not fit well in this context. For example, can suggests present ability, while may be is not grammatically correct here.
• Thus, could is the most appropriate choice, as it reflects a past potential that was not realized due to a lack of funds.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is is because it agrees with the singular subject "candidate."
• In English, we use is for singular subjects, while are is used for plural subjects.
• Has is not a verb that fits in this context, as it does not indicate likelihood.

Ans: (a) 

• The correct word to fill in the blank is approves because it agrees with the singular subject "CEO or the project manager."
• In English, when we have a singular subject, we use the singular form of the verb, which in this case is approves.
• The other options either do not match the subject in number or are grammatically incorrect.
• Thus, the sentence correctly reads: "The CEO or the project manager approves the proposal before proceeding."

Ans: (c)
The correct sentence is: Dr. Radhakrishnan has written a scholarly commentary about the Bhagwat Gita.

Ans: (c)
The correct sentence is: Many species of animals have become extinct in the last hundred years.

Ans: (a) 

• The word subservient means being excessively willing to serve or obey others.
• The correct synonym is groveling, which implies a similar sense of being overly submissive or servile.
• In contrast, domineering suggests being controlling, while independent and superior indicate a lack of submission.
• Thus, groveling accurately reflects the meaning of subservient.

Ans: (b) 

• The word assiduous means showing great care and perseverance in tasks.
• The correct synonym is indefatigable, which describes someone who is tireless and persistent.
• In contrast, negligent means careless, and indifferent or apathetic imply a lack of interest or concern.

Ans: (c)
The antonym of the word “dilapidated” is “renovated”. The word “dilapidated” means “old and in poor condition”, and the word “renovated” means “renewing or restoring to good condition”.

Ans: (d)
The antonym of the word “obtuseness” is “cognizance”. The word “obtuseness” means “the quality of being stupid and slow, or unwilling to understand something”, and the word “cognizance” means “detailed knowledge about or understanding of something”.

Ans: (c)

• The correct spelling is Nomenclature, which refers to a system of names used in a particular field.
• Options (a), (b), and (d) contain spelling errors, making them incorrect.
• Understanding the correct spelling is important for clear communication, especially in academic and professional contexts.
• Always double-check spelling to avoid misunderstandings.

Ans: (d)

• The correct spelling is Obscurantist, which refers to someone who opposes enlightenment or knowledge.
• Options (a), (b), and (c) contain spelling errors that make them incorrect.
• Understanding the correct spelling is important for clear communication.
• Always double-check spelling to avoid misunderstandings.

Ans: (b)

• Statement I is correct because it highlights that some people prefer to believe in opinions that are not based on facts.
• Statement II is incorrect as it suggests that opinions can replace facts, which is not true; facts are essential for informed understanding.
• In summary, while people can have opinions, they should not disregard factual information.
• This distinction is important for critical thinking and making informed decisions.

Ans: (c)

• The statement that "Many individuals were exhausted by the situation and desired a return to their normal routine without any effort" is incorrect. While people were indeed tired of the pandemic, the reality was that returning to normalcy required significant effort and adjustments.
• In contrast, options (a), (b), and (d) accurately reflect the serious consequences of the pandemic, such as health risks, economic struggles, and challenges in education.
• It's important to recognize that the pandemic affected everyone differently, and many were actively seeking solutions rather than simply wanting to return to how things were before.

Ans: (a)

• The phrase "lost this battle" suggests a struggle or challenge faced by seniors.
• In this context, the battle of life refers to the challenges and hardships that come with aging.
• While other options mention important issues, they do not directly relate to the struggles seniors face in their later years.
• Thus, the correct interpretation of the "battle" mentioned is indeed the battle of life.

Ans: (b)

• The pandemic became a political issue primarily because the opposition party took the opportunity to criticize the ruling party's response.
• They blamed the government for its handling of the situation, which is a common tactic in politics.
• This created a divide, as each party tried to gain support by pointing out the other's failures.
• Thus, the pandemic was not just a health crisis but also a platform for political debate.

Ans: (b)

• The word atrocious refers to something that is extremely bad or unpleasant.
• The option horrendous also means something that is shockingly bad or dreadful, making it a suitable synonym.
• Other options like ramifications, endorsed, and stubbornness do not convey the same negative intensity as atrocious.
• Thus, the correct answer is (b) Horrendous.

Ans: (d) 

• Cause and effect are essential in understanding health and fitness because our current choices directly impact our future health.
• For instance, unhealthy eating habits can result in serious health issues later on.
• Moreover, if we ignore the root causes of our habits, we may face significant problems down the line.
• All the options highlight different aspects of how our present actions can lead to negative consequences in the future.

Ans: (a)

• Eating nutrient-rich food provides essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for the immune system to function effectively.
• Foods rich in nutrients help the body to fight off infections and diseases.
• While regular exercise and good sleep are also important for overall health, the direct impact of nutrient-rich food on the immune system is significant.
• Taking a warm bath after meals does not have a direct effect on strengthening immunity.

Ans: (d) 

• Physical exercise has numerous benefits that are supported by scientific research.
• It is known to enhance mood and can lead to feelings of happiness and excitement.
• Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep quality, helping individuals to rest better.
• Therefore, all the options listed are valid benefits of physical exercise.

Ans: (d)

• Each of these habits can significantly impact energy levels.
• Consuming unhealthy and processed food can lead to poor nutrition, making you feel tired.
• Eating excessively or insufficiently disrupts your body's energy balance, causing fatigue.
• Drinking sugary beverages can cause energy spikes followed by crashes, leading to lethargy.
• Therefore, all of these habits contribute to a sluggish feeling.

Ans: (a)

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of making small changes that can positively impact your health and fitness journey.
• These changes are meant to be integrated into daily life, making them more manageable and sustainable.
• By focusing on small adjustments, individuals can gradually improve their overall well-being.
• The other options, while related to health, do not capture the essence of the small daily changes the speaker is advocating for.

Ans: (b) 

• The phrase "make up" means to invent or fabricate something, often an excuse or story.
• In this context, the student is denying that they created a false excuse.
• Other options like "take up" or "get in" do not fit the meaning of creating an excuse.
• Thus, the correct answer is "make up," as it directly relates to the context of the conversation.

Ans: (d)

• In this conversation, Nandita is asking for help with the boxes.
• Komal's response should indicate a willingness to help.
• Option (d) shows Komal agreeing to assist by asking for a box, which is a direct response to the request.
• The other options either question the need for help or indicate a delay, which do not align with the request for assistance.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase "gets on my nerves" means that something is annoying or irritating.
• In this context, Shobha is expressing that Sharia's voice bothers her.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning of annoyance.
• Thus, the correct answer is (b) as it accurately reflects Shobha's feelings about the situation.

Ans: (b)

• The correct answer is had been warning because it indicates a continuous action in the past.
• This phrase shows that the father was repeatedly advising Tim over a period of time.
• Using had been suggests that this warning occurred before the moment Tim lost his bag.
• The other options do not convey the same sense of ongoing advice in the past.

Ans: (a)

• The correct answer is going because it fits grammatically in the sentence.
• In this context, going indicates the action of taking a walk, which is a common expression.
• Other options like gone and having gone do not fit the sentence structure.
• Using go would also be incorrect as it does not match the required form in this context.

Ans: (b)

• In this context, apostate refers to someone who has abandoned their beliefs or principles, often due to a significant life event.
• Steve's tragic loss likely led him to reject previous beliefs or values he held, making this term appropriate.
• The other options do not fit the context of loss and change in belief systems.
• Thus, the correct answer is (b) apostate.

Ans: (a) 

• The word relapse means to fall back into a previous state, especially after having improved. In this context, it suggests returning to excessive gaming.
• Send does not fit the context of the sentence, as it does not imply falling back into a habit.
• Precursor refers to something that comes before another thing, which is unrelated here.
• Advance implies moving forward, which is opposite to the idea of falling back into a habit.

Ans: (c)

• The word inscrutable means something that is difficult to understand or interpret.
• Among the options, Sphinxlike suggests a sense of mystery or enigma, which aligns with the meaning of inscrutable.
• In contrast, fathomable and comprehensible imply that something can be understood, which is the opposite of inscrutable.
• Thus, the correct synonym is Sphinxlike, as it captures the essence of something that is not easily understood.

Ans: (d)

• The word convalescence refers to the process of recovering health and strength after illness.
• The correct antonym is degeneration, which means a decline or deterioration in quality or health.
• In contrast, options like recuperation, revival, and rehabilitation all imply a return to health or improvement, making them not suitable as antonyms.
• Thus, degeneration is the best choice as it represents the opposite of recovery.

Ans: (a)

• In this conversation, Jonathan is indicating that they have reached a point of seriousness or focus.
• The phrase "down to brass tacks" means to get to the essential details or the core of the matter.
• The other options do not convey this meaning and are not commonly used phrases.
• Thus, the correct choice is (a) as it fits perfectly in the context of creating a proper schedule.