English Olympiad Previous Year Paper - 2 | English Olympiad for Class 8 PDF Download

Ans: (a) 

• The phrase "seen to" means to take care of or attend to someone's needs.
• In this context, it indicates that the aunt is responsible for fulfilling the needs of the person after the loss of his parents.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning; for example, "seen with" implies being in someone's company, which is not relevant here.
• Thus, the correct choice is (a) "seen to", as it accurately reflects the aunt's role in providing care.

Ans: (c)

• The word intriguing means that the speech was very interesting and captured attention.
• In this context, it suggests that the audience was engaged and eager to listen.
• Options like intricacy and indetermination do not fit the meaning of being captivating.
• Monotonous implies dullness, which contradicts the idea of being all ears.

Ans: (c)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is excludes. This means that the method should be able to eliminate or leave out all possibilities of error.
• Enhances means to improve, which does not fit the context of eliminating errors.
• Includes suggests adding possibilities, which is the opposite of what is needed.
• Organizes does not relate to the concept of error management in this context.

Ans: (a)

• In this sentence, the word "yakking" means talking a lot, often in a casual or chatty way.
• When Sumita was "yakking on," it implies she was engaged in conversation, which could lead to boredom for the listener.
• The other options do not fit the context of someone talking or being chatty.
• Thus, "yakking on" is the correct choice as it directly relates to the feeling of boredom mentioned.

Ans: (a) 

• The phrase "hand in" means to submit something, like your answer sheets.
• In this context, you need to submit your answer sheets before a specific time.
• Other options like "hand out" mean to distribute, which is not what you want to do here.
• Thus, the correct choice is "hand in" as it fits the requirement of submitting your work.

Ans: (d)

• To get through examinations means to successfully complete them.
• Hard work and dedication are essential for this process.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning related to completing exams.
• Thus, the correct choice is (d) get through.

Ans: (c) 

• The correct word to fill in the blank is why because it introduces the reason behind the desire to work in the corporate world.
• Using which or when does not make sense in this context, as they do not indicate a reason.
• How also does not fit, as it refers to the manner of working rather than the reasons for wanting to work.
• Thus, why is the most appropriate choice to explain the motivations of people.

Ans: (d)

• The correct phrase is "was being built," which indicates that the construction was ongoing during the winter break.
• Option (a) "is build" is incorrect because it does not use the correct tense.
• Option (b) "had been built" suggests that the building was completed before the winter break, which is not the case here.
• Option (c) "was build" is grammatically incorrect as "build" should be "built."

Ans: (c)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is would. This indicates a conditional situation where healing did not occur despite treatment.
• Using would suggests that there was an expectation of healing that did not happen.
• Other options like should and shall do not fit the context of the sentence as they imply obligation or future intention, rather than a conditional outcome.
• Thus, would is the most appropriate choice here, reflecting the situation accurately.

Ans: (d)

• In this sentence, the correct word to fill in the blank is must, which indicates a strong obligation or necessity.
• Using must emphasizes that it is very important to prioritize our health above all else.
• Other options like let, ought, and may be do not convey the same level of urgency or necessity.
• Thus, the sentence clearly states that we have a duty to remember our health is the most important.

Ans: (a) 

• The correct phrase is "had been studying" because it indicates an action that was ongoing in the past.
• This form shows that the studying happened continuously up until the realization of the math test.
• Options like "have studied" and "was learned" do not fit the context of an ongoing action in the past.
• Thus, "had been studying" is the best choice to convey the intended meaning.

Ans: (a) 

• The word which is used to refer to specific items, in this case, the dessert and cake.
• It connects the clause about the cake you baked to the main sentence, indicating that it is the cake being discussed.
• Options like one and how do not fit grammatically in this context.
• Thus, which is the correct choice as it properly links the description to the cake.

Ans: (b)

• The term show-off refers to someone who likes to display their possessions or achievements to gain attention.
• In this context, the person is eager to share news about her new diamond ring, indicating a desire to impress others.
• Options like show of and pretentious do not accurately capture this behavior.
• Thus, show-off is the most fitting choice for someone who seeks to boast about their luxury item.

Ans: (c)

• The phrase "unreasonable of her" is the correct expression, indicating that it is not reasonable for her to take such an action.
• Using "in" or "upon" does not fit the context of the sentence.
• "For" could also be a possible option, but "of" is the correct choice here.
• This structure emphasizes the judgment about her decision to leave her job.

Ans: (b) 

• The phrase "Had the police not arrived" indicates a hypothetical situation in the past.
• In such cases, we use "would have" to express what could have happened if the condition had been met.
• Option (b) "would have killed" correctly reflects this conditional past scenario.
• The other options do not fit the context of a past unreal condition.

Ans: (a) 

• The subject of the sentence is "the king," which is singular.
• The phrase "along with his ministers" does not change the singular nature of the subject.
• In English, when a singular subject is followed by phrases like "along with," the verb must still agree with the singular subject.
• Therefore, the correct verb form is "is," making the complete sentence grammatically correct.

Ans: (c)

• The correct answer is varies because it indicates that pain tolerance changes among different individuals.
• Using varies shows that this is a general statement about how pain tolerance is not the same for everyone.
• Options like varied and vary do not fit grammatically in this context.
• Thus, varies is the appropriate choice to express this idea clearly.

Ans: (a) 

• The correct word to fill in the blank is Whenever. This word indicates that no matter the time or occasion, the outcome remains the same.
• Using Whenever suggests that every time a match occurs, the speaker loses, emphasizing the consistency of the winner.
• Other options like Therefore and Moreover do not fit the context of time or frequency, while Whether implies a choice, which is not the case here.
• Thus, Whenever is the best choice to convey the idea of repeated matches leading to the same result.

Ans: (c)

• The correct word to fill in the blank is easily because it describes how the technician fixed the problem without difficulty.
• Obviously does not fit as it suggests something is clear, not how the task was done.
• Quick is an adjective and does not grammatically fit in the blank, which needs an adverb.
• Cheerfully implies a mood rather than the manner of fixing the problem.

Ans: (b)

• The term grandiloquent refers to a style of speaking that is extravagant and lofty, often using complex words to impress others.
• In contrast, verbosity means using too many words, while concise means being brief and to the point.
• Trivial indicates something of little importance, which does not relate to the use of elaborate language.
• Thus, a speech that is full of pompous words is best described as grandiloquent.

Ans: (c)

• The correct phrase is had been allocated, which indicates that the action of allocating the rooms was completed in the past before another time reference.
• Options (a) and (b) are incorrect because they do not use the correct tense or form for this context.
• Option (d) suggests a present action, which does not fit with the past context of the manager's statement.
• Thus, had been allocated is the right choice as it shows the past perfect passive voice, indicating that the allocation was done prior to the current discussion.

Ans: (b)

• The correct word here is elicit, which means to draw out or bring forth information or facts from someone.
• Eject means to force out, which does not fit the context of gathering information.
• Enlist refers to enrolling or recruiting, and ensure means to make certain, neither of which relate to obtaining facts.
• Thus, despite our efforts, we could not successfully elicit any new information from him.

Ans: (d)
The correct sentence is: The traveller asked the farmer if he could tell him the way to the nearest inn.

Ans: (b)
The correct sentence is: He asked his servant why he was so lazy that day

Ans: (c)

• The word scintillating means something that is sparkling or brilliant.
• Among the options, glittering is the closest in meaning, as it also refers to something that shines or sparkles.
• Pedestrian and touching do not convey the same sense of brightness or brilliance.
• Justifying relates to providing reasons or explanations, which is unrelated to the meaning of scintillating.

Ans: (c) 

• The word sumptuous means something that is luxurious or rich in quality.
• Among the options, lavish also conveys a sense of great richness or extravagance, making it the correct synonym.
• In contrast, meagre and barren imply a lack of abundance, while irritable relates to mood, not richness.

Ans: (b)
The antonym of the word “squandering” is “saving”. The word “squandering” means “to waste money or supplies”, and the word “saving” means “to save money or something for future use”.

Ans: (d)
The antonym of the word “capricious” is “steadfast”. The word “capricious” means “to change behaviour suddenly in a way that is difficult to predict”, and the word “steadfast” means “to not change one’s attitudes or aims”. 

Ans: (d)

• The word sacrilegious refers to something that violates or shows disrespect for sacred things.
• Among the options, sacrilegious is the only one that is spelled correctly.
• The other options contain spelling errors, making them incorrect.
• It's important to know the correct spelling, especially in contexts involving religion or respect for sacred matters.

Ans: (d)

• The correct spelling is Hindrance, which refers to something that obstructs or delays progress.
• Options (a), (b), and (c) contain common misspellings of the word.
• Understanding the correct spelling is important for effective communication.
• Always double-check spelling to avoid confusion in writing.

Ans: (d)

• Technology addiction is a significant issue for teenagers, with concerns about its effects on their mental health.
• Many experts believe that excessive use of technology can lead to increased feelings of anxiety and other mental health problems.
• Options A and B highlight these negative impacts, while option C incorrectly suggests that teens are less exposed to cyberbullying and violence.
• Thus, the correct answer is both A and B, as they accurately reflect the concerns surrounding technology addiction.

Ans: (d)

• Statement I highlights that excessive use of technology can lead to increased risks of depression and anxiety, which is supported by various studies.
• Statement II emphasizes the need for parents and adults to actively engage in helping teens manage their technology use to prevent addiction.
• Both statements are valid and reflect the importance of understanding the impact of technology on mental health.
• Thus, the correct answer is that both statements are correct.

Ans: (d)

• Understanding technology addiction is vital for teens, as it can lead to negative consequences.
• Teens need to be educated about the potential dangers, such as social isolation and mental health issues.
• Awareness helps them make informed choices regarding their technology use.
• Parents and guardians play a key role in guiding and supporting teens in this learning process.

Ans: (d)

• To effectively combat technology addiction, parents and adults can take several actions.
• They can monitor device usage, which helps in understanding how much time teens spend on their devices.
• Encouraging alternative activities like sports or hobbies can provide teens with healthier options.
• Educating teens about the impacts of excessive technology use is crucial for their awareness.
• Thus, the best approach is to implement all of these strategies together.

Ans: (a)

• Physical inactivity can result in serious health problems.
• Common issues include cardiovascular disease, obesity, and various other health complications.
• Staying active is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing these conditions.
• Other options do not accurately represent the main health risks associated with a lack of physical activity.

Ans: (c)

• Both statements are true. Statement I emphasizes the importance of visualization for your subconscious mind, suggesting that even a few minutes a day can be beneficial.
• Statement II highlights that to become a champion, one must be focused, hardworking, and committed to their goals.
• Thus, both statements support the idea of mental preparation and dedication in achieving success.

Ans: (b)

• The statement "Always imagine what your competitor will do" is incorrect because effective mind training focuses on self-belief and personal visualization rather than fixating on the opponent's actions.
• Believing in yourself and visualizing your own success are key strategies for mental training.
• Surrounding yourself with supportive people is also crucial for motivation and achieving your goals.
• Thus, focusing on your own performance is more beneficial than worrying about what others might do.

Ans: (a)

• To defeat your opponent, you need a strong determination that reflects a "do or die" attitude.
• This mindset emphasizes the importance of commitment and persistence in the face of challenges.
• While other options like training and strategy are important, the core attitude required is one of unwavering resolve.
• Ultimately, having a "do or die" mentality can drive you to push through obstacles and achieve victory.

Ans: (c)

• Being around positive people can greatly influence your mindset.
• They can help you avoid negative thinking, which can be harmful to your mental health.
• Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals encourages a more optimistic outlook.
• This positive environment can lead to better decision-making and overall happiness.

Ans: (b)

• The phrase burning desire refers to a strong and intense feeling of wanting something.
• It indicates being extremely interested in achieving a goal or pursuing a passion.
• This expression conveys a sense of urgency and deep motivation.
• In contrast, the other options suggest disinterest or different feelings that do not match the meaning of the phrase.

Ans: (c)

• Kim's response is an acknowledgment of Cathy's wait, showing consideration.
• The phrase “Sorry to keep you waiting” expresses regret for the delay.
• This is a polite way to address someone who has been waiting, making it the most appropriate response.
• The other options do not convey the same level of empathy or acknowledgment of the wait.

Ans: (b)

• The correct phrase is "sort of," which is used to describe a type or kind of something.
• In this context, it refers to the type of person Mahima is, implying that her refusal of the promotion is unusual or unexpected.
• Options like "sought of" and "sought off" are incorrect as they do not convey the intended meaning.
• Thus, "sort of" is the appropriate choice to complete the sentence correctly.

Ans: (c)

• The correct phrase is "on online users," which indicates the subject of the report.
• The second part "ready for presentation" shows that the report is prepared for showing.
• Using "on" and "for" correctly connects the report's focus and its purpose.
• Other options do not fit grammatically or contextually in this sentence.

Ans: (c)

• The boy is inquiring about the availability of ICSE books for 7th grade.
• The shopkeeper's response indicates a willingness to help by asking for a list of books needed.
• This shows that the shopkeeper is ready to assist the boy in finding the right books.
• The other options either express a lack of availability or are irrelevant to the boy's request.

Ans: (a) 

• The phrase "fawning over" means to show excessive affection or attention towards someone, often to gain favor.
• In this context, it indicates that Maria has been trying to impress or please the boss.
• The other options do not convey the same meaning and are not commonly used in this context.
• Thus, "fawning over" is the correct choice as it accurately describes Maria's behavior towards the boss.

Ans: (d)

• Parliamentary democracy relies on the concept of following rules and regulations.
• The term that best fits in the blank is adherence, which means sticking to or following the rules.
• While obligation and liability suggest a sense of duty, they do not convey the same meaning as adherence.
• Thus, adherence is the most appropriate choice as it emphasizes the importance of following the rules in a democratic system.

Ans: (a)

• The correct phrase is "As he entered," which indicates the action happening simultaneously with the door swinging shut.
• "On having entered" suggests a completed action, which doesn't fit the context of the door closing suddenly.
• "On being entering" is grammatically incorrect and doesn't convey a clear meaning.
• "While entered" is also incorrect as it lacks the proper structure for the action being described.

Ans: (d)

• The word obstreperous means noisy and difficult to control, often in a disruptive way.
• In this context, it describes the captain's loud and unruly behavior in response to being hit.
• The correct synonym is tumultuous, which also conveys a sense of chaotic noise or disturbance.
• The other options do not capture this meaning: radical refers to fundamental change, judicious means wise, and courageous means brave.

Ans: (a)

• The word ceremonious refers to being overly formal or ritualistic.
• The correct antonym is insouciant, which means carefree or unconcerned.
• In contrast, conscientious implies being diligent and careful, while curious relates to a desire to learn.
• Formal is similar to ceremonious, thus not an antonym.

Ans: (d)

• The phrase "the skin of my teeth" means to barely succeed or just manage to get by.
• In this context, the son is expressing that he did not do well on the exam, indicating a close call in passing.
• Options like "opening the book" and "leaps and bounds" do not fit the context of barely passing.
• Thus, the correct choice is (d) as it accurately reflects the son's experience of passing the exam by a very narrow margin.