National Defence Academy exam paper Held on 17-08-2008-2

National Defence Academy (NDA)

(Held on 17-08-2008)

English

ANTONYMS

Directions—(Q. 18–26) In this section, each of the following nine items consists of a word in CAPITAL LETTERS, followed by four words. Select the word that is FARTHEST in MEANING to the bold word in CAPITAL LETTERS.
18. EPHEMERAL
(A) Temporal
(B) Stable
(C) Permanent
(D) Earthly

19. OBLIGATORY
(A) Doubtful
(B) Voluntary
(C) Sincerely
(D) Faithfully

20. CIRCUMSPECT
(A) Careless
(B) Pusillanimous
(C) Reticent
(D) Hostile

21. OBSCURE(A) Suitable
(B) Apt
(C) Thalamus
(D) Clear

22. REPULSIVE
(A) Attractive
(B) Colourful
(C) Unattractive
(D) Striking

23. KINDLED
(A) Extinguished
(B) Reduced
(C) Weakened
(D) Ignited

24. VITAL
(A) Trivial
(B) Peripheral
(C) Optional
(D) Superficial

25. PENURY
(A) Education
(B) Laziness
(C) Wealth
(D) Ignorance

26. INHIBIT
(A) Pamper
(B) Breed
(C) Accept
(D) Promote

COMPREHENSION

Directions—(Q. 27–37) In this section, you have four short passages. After each passage, you will find several questions based on the passage. First, read a passage, and then answer the questions based on it. You are required to select your answers based on the contents of the passage and opinion of the author only.
Examples 'I' and 'J' are solved for you.

PASSAGE (Example)

In our approach to life, be it pragmatic or otherwise, a basic fact that confronts us squarely and unmistakably is the desire for peace, security and happiness. Different forms of life at different levels of existence make up the teeming denizens of this earth of ours. And, no matter whether they belong to the higher groups such as human beings or to the lower groups such as animals, all beings primarily seek peace, comfort and security. Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to a man. Even the lowliest insect strives for protection against dangers that threaten its life. Just as each one of us wants to live and not to die, so do all other creatures.

I. The author's main point is that
(A) different forms of life are found on earth
(B) different levels of existence are possible in nature
(C) peace and security are the chief goals of all living beings
(D) even the weakest creature struggles to preserve its life

J. Which one of the following assumptions or steps is essential in developing the author's position ?
(A) All forms of life have a single overriding goal
(B) The will to survive of a creature is identified with a desire for peace
(C) All beings are divided into higher and lower groups
(D) A parallel is drawn between happiness and life, and pain and death

Explanation :
I. The idea which represents the author's main point is "peace and security are the chief goals of all living beings", which is response (C). So (C) is the correct answer.
J. The best assumption underlying the passage is "The will to survive of a creature is identified with a desire for peace", which is response (B). So (B) is the correct answer.

PASSAGE I

We have built up an energy intensive society such that hundreds of daily acts are dependent on having energy at our ready command. Most of that energy comes from fossil fules. Yet, within two centuries we will have used up nearly all of the fossil fuel that has been built up over millions of years of earth time. Furthermore, the extraction and consumption of fossil fuels is a major polluter of our environment. Our appetite for energy is seemingly insatiable. We are now searching for it in different places and using methods that inevitably upset and pollute the environment. Since fossil energy will soon be gone we are searching for alternative sources.

27. Today we are dependent on energy for everything. What is the most likely factor that contributes to this situation ?
(A) Sufficient quantity of energy is available at present
(B) We have developed a society which makes intensive use of energy
(C) Energy is most convenient and easy to use
(D) We have no alternatives

28. The author seems to disapprove further extraction and consumption of fossil fuels. Which of the following is the most likely reason for that ?
(A) Further extraction of fossil fuel is a costly affair
(B) Further extraction and consumption of fossil fuel may lead to conflict between countries
(C) We do not have the technical know-how for further extraction of fossil fuels
(D) Further extraction and consumption of fossil fuels will lead to worldwide environmental pollution.

29. According to the author, we are searching for alternative sources of energy. What is the most likely reason for this ?
(A) Alternative sources of energy are cheaper
(B) It is feared that fossil energy will soon be exhausted
(C) A number of alternative energy sources are easily available
(D) Alternative sources of energy will not cause any environmental problems