ACS IBA Engsight

Index

Page Number
TOPIC

Miscellaneous Grammar Topics 02-21

Vocabulary 22-24

Exercise 25-28

1|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

Miscellaneous
Grammar Topics
Use of "So", “Such” and “Too”

1. "So"
Usage:

● Intensifier: "So" is used to intensify an adjective or adverb.

Grammatical Structure:

● So + adjective/adverb + that clause.

Examples:

● Adjective: She is so beautiful that everyone notices her.

● Adverb: He runs so quickly that no one can catch him.

Note: The clause that follows "so" often indicates a consequence or result of the intensity
expressed.

2. "Such"
Usage:

● Intensifier for noun phrases: "Such" is used before a noun or adjective + noun to
emphasize the extent or degree of something.

Grammatical Structure:

● Such + (a/an) + adjective + noun (singular/plural).

Examples:

● Noun: She is such a talented singer.

● Adjective + Noun: It was such an interesting book that I couldn't put it down.
● Plural Noun: They faced such difficulties during their journey.

Note: "Such" is often followed by "a" or "an" before singular countable nouns.

3. "Too"

Usage:

● Excess or addition: "Too" is used to indicate an excessive amount or degree of

something, often with a negative connotation.

Grammatical Structure:

● Too + adjective/adverb (without "that" clause).

2|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

Examples:

● Adjective: The coffee is too hot to drink right away.

● Adverb: He drives too fast on these narrow roads.

Note: Unlike "so," "too" does not introduce a clause but stands alone to indicate excessiveness.

At vs On vs In
The prepositions "at," "on," and "in" are often used to indicate time and place, but their usage
depends on the context and the level of specificity required. Here are general guidelines on how to
use each one correctly:

Time

● At: Used for specific times.

○ Examples:
■ at 3 PM
■ at noon
■ at midnight
■ at sunrise
● On: Used for days and dates.
○ Examples:
■ on Monday
■ on July 4th
■ on Christmas Day
■ on the weekend (US usage; in UK, "at the weekend" is common)
● In: Used for longer periods of time such as months, years, centuries, and long periods.
○ Examples:
■ in January
■ in 2023
■ in the 21st century
■ in the summer

Place

● At: Used for specific points.

○ Examples:
■ at the door
■ at the bus stop
■ at the intersection
■ at the top of the page
● On: Used for surfaces or positions on a surface.
○ Examples:
■ on the table
■ on the wall
■ on the floor

3|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

■ on the map
● In: Used for enclosed spaces or areas.
○ Examples:
■ in the room
■ in the car
■ in the city
■ in the park

Between vs Among
Between:

● Usage: "Between" is used when referring to relationships involving two separate, distinct
items, individuals, or groups.
● Example: "The book is between the two bookends." (Refers to the space or position
separating two specific bookends.)

Among:

● Usage: "Among" is used when referring to relationships involving more than two items,
individuals, or groups. It implies a collective or within a group.
● Example: "She found her keys among the papers on the desk." (Refers to the keys being
within the group of papers on the desk.)

Over vs Above

Over:

● Position: "Over" typically indicates a position that is directly higher than something else,
often implying physical or metaphorical elevation.
● Example: "The plane flew over the city." (The plane is in the sky, directly above the city.)
● Example: "He placed the book over the table." (The book is physically positioned on top of
the table.)

Above:

● Position: "Above" also indicates a higher position, but it can imply a position that is more
abstract or less directly physical than "over."
● Example: "The stars above twinkled in the night sky." (The stars are in the sky, not
necessarily directly above any specific point.)
● Example: "Her skills are above average." (Her skills are at a higher level than what is
considered average.)

4|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

Here is a list of a few appropriate preposition:

Preposition Meaning
Absorbed in Deeply engaged or interested in something.
According to As stated by or based on information from someone/something.
Accustomed to Used to something or having a habit of doing something.
Aside from In addition to; apart from.

At the expense of By harming or neglecting something else.

Bad at/for Lacking skill or ability in something
Because of As a result of; on account of.
Capable of Having the ability or skill to do something
Confident of Feeling sure about something
Due to Similar to "because of" but can also suggest obligation or necessity.
Exposed to Subjected to something, often negative
Fit for Suitable or appropriate for a particular purpose
Fond of Having a liking for something
Good at/for Having skill or ability in something
In spite of Despite; notwithstanding.
In terms of With regard to; concerning.
Interested in Having a desire to learn or know more about something

Involved in Participating in or connected to an activity

Keen on Enthusiastic about something

Liable to Likely to experience something, often negative

Nervous of Feeling anxious or apprehensive about something

Owe to Be indebted to someone or something for something

Pleased with Feeling happy or satisfied with something

Prepare for To make arrangements for something that will happen in the future

Proud of Feeling a sense of satisfaction or triumph about someone or something

Ready for Prepared to begin or do something

On behalf of Representing someone or something.

But and since are two words that can function both as conjunction and preposition.
Conjunction: He studied hard, but he didn't pass the exam.
Preposition: Everyone but John attended the meeting.
Conjunction: We went to a movie after we finished dinner.
Preposition: We went to a movie after dinner.
5|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

Affirmative and Negative Agreement

Affirmative and negative agreement refer to the ways we show agreement with positive and
negative statements in English. These constructions ensure that our responses are grammatically
correct and clear.

Affirmative Agreement

When you want to agree with a positive statement, you can use phrases like "so" and "too."

Structure:

1. So + auxiliary verb + subject

○ Example: "I am happy." "So am I."
2. Subject + auxiliary verb + too
○ Example: "I am happy." "I am too."

Examples:

● "She likes chocolate." "So do I." / "I do too."

● "They have finished their homework." "So have we." / "We have too."
● "He can play the guitar." "So can I." / "I can too."

Negative Agreement

When you want to agree with a negative statement, you use phrases like "neither" and "nor."

Structure:

1. Neither + auxiliary verb + subject

○ Example: "I don’t like spinach." "Neither do I."
2. Subject + auxiliary verb + not + either
○ Example: "I don’t like spinach." "I don’t either."

Examples:

● "She doesn’t eat meat." "Neither do I." / "I don’t either."

● "They haven't seen that movie." "Neither have we." / "We haven’t either."
● "He can’t swim." "Neither can I." / "I can’t either."

Its vs. It’s

● Its (possessive pronoun): Shows ownership or possession.
○ Example: The dog wagged its tail.
● It’s (contraction): Short for "it is" or "it has."
○ Example: It’s going to rain. (It is going to rain.)
○ Example: It’s been a long day. (It has been a long day.)

6|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

They, There, and Their

● They (pronoun): Refers to people or things previously mentioned.

○ Example: They are going to the park.
● There (adverb): Refers to a place or position.
○ Example: The book is over there.
● Their (possessive pronoun): Shows ownership by a group of people.
○ Example: Their house is on the corner.

Affect vs. Effect

● Affect (verb): Means to influence something.

○ Example: The weather can affect your mood.
● Effect (noun): The result of a change.
○ Example: The new law had a significant effect on the economy.

Later vs. Latter

● Later (adverb): Refers to a time in the future.

○ Example: I will call you later.
● Latter (adjective): Refers to the second of two things mentioned.
○ Example: I prefer the latter option.

Loose vs. Lose

● Loose (adjective): Not tight or secure.

○ Example: The screw is loose.
● Lose (verb): To misplace something or fail to win.
○ Example: Don't lose your keys. / They might lose the game.

Peak vs. Pique

● Peak (noun/verb): The highest point or to reach the highest point.

○ Example: He climbed to the peak of the mountain.
● Pique (verb/noun): To stimulate interest or curiosity, or a feeling of irritation.
○ Example: The story piqued my interest.

Compliment vs. Complement

● Compliment (noun/verb): A polite expression of praise or admiration.

○ Example: She gave him a compliment on his new haircut.
● Complement (noun/verb): Something that completes or goes well with something.
○ Example: The wine complements the meal perfectly.

Pore vs. Pour

● Pore (verb): To read or study something carefully.

○ Example: She pored over the ancient texts.
● Pour (verb): To flow or cause to flow in a steady stream.

7|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

○ Example: He poured the coffee into the cup.

Your vs. You're

● Your (possessive pronoun): Indicates possession.

○ Example: Your book is on the table.
● You're (contraction): Short for "you are."
○ Example: You're going to love this movie. (You are going to love this movie.)

Then vs. Than

● Then (adverb): Refers to time or sequence.

○ Example: First we went shopping, then we went to the park.
● Than (conjunction): Used for comparisons.
○ Example: She is taller than her brother.

To vs. Too vs. Two

● To (preposition): Indicates direction or purpose.

○ Example: We are going to the store.
● Too (adverb): Means "also" or "excessively."
○ Example: She wants to come too. / It's too hot outside.
● Two (number): The number 2.
○ Example: They have two dogs.

Accept vs. Except

● Accept (verb): To receive or agree to something.

○ Example: She accepted the job offer.
● Except (preposition/conjunction): Means "excluding."
○ Example: Everyone is here except John.

Advice vs. Advise

● Advice (noun): Guidance or recommendations.

○ Example: She gave me good advice.
● Advise (verb): To give recommendations or guidance.
○ Example: I advise you to take the offer.

Allusion vs. Illusion

● Allusion (noun): An indirect reference to something.

○ Example: The novel makes several allusions to classical literature.
● Illusion (noun): A false impression or deceptive appearance.
○ Example: The magician created the illusion of a disappearing rabbit.

Cite vs. Site vs. Sight

● Cite (verb): To reference or quote.

8|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

○ Example: Please cite your sources.

● Site (noun): A location or place.
○ Example: This is the site of the new building.
● Sight (noun): The ability to see or something that is seen.
○ Example: The sunset was a beautiful sight.

Principle vs. Principal

● Principle (noun): A fundamental truth or proposition.

○ Example: He adheres to strong moral principles.
● Principal (noun/adjective): The head of a school or main/primary.
○ Example: The principal of the school gave a speech. / The principal reason for the
decision was cost.

Stationary vs. Stationery

● Stationary (adjective): Not moving.

○ Example: The car remained stationary.
● Stationery (noun): Writing materials.
○ Example: She bought new stationery for her office.

Further vs. Farther

● Further (adjective/adverb): Refers to metaphorical or non-physical distance.

○ Example: We need to discuss this further.
● Farther (adjective/adverb): Refers to physical distance.
○ Example: He ran farther than anyone else.

Lie vs. Lay

● Lie (verb): To recline or be in a resting position. (Past: lay, Past Participle: lain)
○ Example: I need to lie down.
● Lay (verb): To put or place something down. (Past: laid, Past Participle: laid)
○ Example: Lay the book on the table.

Everyday vs. Every day

● Everyday (adjective): Commonplace or normal.

○ Example: These are my everyday shoes.
● Every day (phrase): Each day.
○ Example: I walk to work every day.

Imply vs. Infer

● Imply (verb): To suggest indirectly.

○ Example: Are you implying that I am wrong?
● Infer (verb): To deduce or conclude from evidence.
○ Example: From his tone, I inferred that he was upset.

9|Page
 ACS IBA Engsight

Elicit vs. Illicit

● Elicit (verb): To draw out or evoke.

○ Example: The comedian’s jokes elicited laughter from the audience.
● Illicit (adjective): Illegal or forbidden.
○ Example: The police cracked down on illicit activities.

Fewer vs. Less

● Fewer (adjective): Used with countable nouns.

○ Example: There are fewer apples in the basket.
● Less (adjective): Used with uncountable nouns.
○ Example: We have less water than we thought.

May vs. Might

● May (verb): Indicates permission or possibility.

○ Example: You may leave early. / It may rain tomorrow.
● Might (verb): Indicates a smaller possibility.
○ Example: It might rain tomorrow (less likely than "may").

Historic vs. Historical

● Historic (adjective): Important in history.

○ Example: The signing of the treaty was a historic event.
● Historical (adjective): Related to history.
○ Example: The museum has many historical artifacts.

Than vs. Then

● Than (conjunction): Used for comparisons.

○ Example: She is taller than her brother.
● Then (adverb): Indicates time or sequence.
○ Example: We went to the store, then we went home.

Who's vs. Whose

● Who's (contraction): Short for "who is" or "who has."

○ Example: Who’s coming to the party? (Who is coming to the party?)
○ Example: Who’s been eating my cookies? (Who has been eating my cookies?)
● Whose (possessive pronoun): Indicates ownership.
○ Example: Whose book is this?

Breath vs. Breathe

● Breath (noun): The air taken into or expelled from the lungs.
○ Example: She took a deep breath before diving in.
● Breathe (verb): The act of inhaling and exhaling.
○ Example: Just breathe deeply and relax.

10 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Emigrate vs. Immigrate

● Emigrate (verb): To leave one's own country to settle in another.

○ Example: She decided to emigrate from Italy to Canada.
● Immigrate (verb): To come to live permanently in a foreign country.
○ Example: They immigrate to the United States every year.

Later vs. Latter

● Later (adverb): At a time in the future.

○ Example: I will call you later.
● Latter (adjective): The second of two things mentioned.
○ Example: Between the car and the bike, I prefer the latter

Assure vs. Ensure vs. Insure

● Assure (verb): To tell someone something confidently to remove doubt.

○ Example: I assure you that everything is fine.
● Ensure (verb): To make certain that something happens.
○ Example: Please ensure that the door is locked.
● Insure (verb): To provide or obtain insurance for.
○ Example: You should insure your car against theft.

Capital vs. Capitol

● Capital (noun/adjective): A city where a government is based, wealth, or an uppercase

letter.
○ Example: Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States. / She invested her
capital in the business. / Use a capital letter at the beginning of the sentence.
● Capitol (noun): A building where a legislative body meets.
○ Example: The Capitol building is located in Washington, D.C.

Climactic vs. Climatic

● Climactic (adjective): Pertaining to the climax or highest point.

○ Example: The movie had a climactic ending.
● Climatic (adjective): Relating to climate.
○ Example: The climatic conditions were harsh.

Desert vs. Dessert

● Desert (noun/verb): A dry, barren area or to abandon.

○ Example: The Sahara is a vast desert. / They deserted the sinking ship.
● Dessert (noun): A sweet course eaten at the end of a meal.
○ Example: We had ice cream for dessert.

Device vs. Devise

● Device (noun): A tool or piece of equipment.

11 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

○ Example: She invented a new device for measuring temperature.

● Devise (verb): To plan or invent a complex procedure, system, or mechanism.
○ Example: They devised a strategy to win the game.

Discreet vs. Discrete

● Discreet (adjective): Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions.

○ Example: He was very discreet about the secret.
● Discrete (adjective): Individually separate and distinct.
○ Example: The essay was divided into three discrete sections.

Elicit vs. Illicit

● Elicit (verb): To draw out or evoke.

○ Example: The comedian’s jokes elicited laughter from the audience.
● Illicit (adjective): Illegal or forbidden.
○ Example: The police cracked down on illicit activities.

Common Errors
Fill in the Blank

1) She will meet her friend ________ the café at 3 PM.

a) on b) in c) at d) to e) by

2) They plan to have the meeting ________ Monday morning.

a) at b) in c) on d) during e) between

3) The painting was hung ________ the wall, adding a splash of color to the room.
a) at b) in c) over d) on e) above

4) She left her phone ________ the table, but now it’s missing.
a) at b) in c) on d) over e) above

5) The city is beautiful, especially ________ the spring when all the flowers are in bloom.
a) at b) in c) on d) during e) by

6) The keys were found ________ the papers on the desk.

a) between b) among c) in d) over e) above

7) The book fell ________ the gap between the bed and the wall.
a) at b) in c) on d) through e) over

8) She always parks her car ________ the garage at night.

a) at b) in c) on d) over e) above

12 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

9) The stars ________ twinkled brightly, making the night sky seem magical.
a) at b) in c) over d) on e) above

10) He placed the umbrella ________ the table to dry.

a) in b) on c) over d) at e) between

11) James couldn't finish his assignment on time, and ________.

a) so could I b) neither did I c) nor could I d) neither could I e) I could either

12) Marie has mastered the violin, and her sister ________.
a) so has b) has too c) has either d) so did e) has as well

13) They aren't interested in the new project, and ________.

a) nor are we b) so are we c) neither do we d) we aren't either e) neither we do

14) Lara speaks three languages fluently, and ________.

a) so I do b) neither do I c) I do too d) I too do e) nor I do

Find the Correct Use

Question 15:
Which of the following sentences uses "affect" correctly?
a) The news had a positive affect on the team.
b) The change in policy will affect all employees.
c) The effect of the speech was immediate.
d) He was deeply affect by the movie.

Question 16:
Identify the correct use of "its" and "it's":
a) The dog chased it's tail.
b) Its a beautiful day.
c) The cat licked its paws.
d) It's collar was missing.

Question 17:
Which sentence correctly uses "stationary" and "stationery"?
a) She bought new stationary for her office.
b) The car remained stationery during the storm.
c) The car remained stationary in traffic.
d) He designed his own stationery for letters.

Question 18:
Select the correct use of "imply" and "infer":
a) From his statement, I could imply he was angry.
b) Are you trying to infer that I am wrong?
c) She implied that she was unhappy with the decision.
d) I inferred her message as a compliment.

13 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Question 19:
Choose the correct use of "than" and "then":
a) We went to the park, and than we had ice cream.
b) She is taller then her brother.
c) He scored higher than anyone else.
d) First, finish your homework, than you can play.

Fill in the Blank

Question 20:
The magician created the illusion of a disappearing rabbit, while the novelist made several
________ to classical literature.
a) illusions b) allusions c) elusions d) illusions

Question 21:
Her skills are ________ average, which means she performs better than most of her peers.
a) over b) above c) higher d) greater

Question 22:
You need to ________ your sources correctly in your research paper.
a) cite b) site c) sight d) cite

Question 23:
The harsh ________ conditions made it difficult for the climbers to reach the summit.
a) climactic b) climatic c) climate d) climax

Question 24:
The treaty was a ________ event in history, marking the end of the war.
a) historical b) historic c) history d) historically

Sentence Correction
Question 25:
Correct the error in the following sentence:
"Everyone are expected to attend the meeting."
a) Everyone is expected to attend the meeting.
b) Everyone is expecting to attend the meeting.
c) Every one are expected to attend the meeting.
d) Everyone were expected to attend the meeting.

Question 26:
Identify the sentence with the correct use of "principle" and "principal":
a) The principal behind the decision was sound.
b) She was known for her strong moral principals.
c) He is the principal of the school.
d) The company operates on a simple principal.

14 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Question 27:
Find the sentence with the correct use of "compliment" and "complement":
a) The wine was a perfect compliment to the meal.
b) She complemented him on his new haircut.
c) The two colors complement each other nicely.
d) He gave her a nice complement.

Question 28:
Choose the sentence with the correct use of "breath" and "breathe":
a) She took a deep breathe before the speech.
b) Remember to breath deeply during meditation.
c) The air was so cold it hurt to breathe.
d) He was out of breathe after the run.

Question 29:
Identify the correct use of "desert" and "dessert":
a) They enjoyed a delicious desert after dinner.
b) The soldiers were punished for deserting their posts.
c) The Sahara is the largest dessert in the world.
d) She loves chocolate desert the most.

Error Identification
Question 30:
Find the error in the following sentence:
"Whose going to the concert with us tonight?"
a) Whose b) going c) to d) the

Question 31:
Identify the error in this sentence:
"Your the best friend anyone could ask for."
a) Your b) the c) friend d) could

Question 32:
Which part of the sentence contains an error?
"She excepted the award with grace and thanked her team."
a) She b) excepted c) the d) with

Question 33:
Find the error in this sentence:
"He couldn't decide weather to go to the party or stay home."
a) couldn't b) weather c) to d) stay

Question 34:
Identify the incorrect word in the sentence:
"They might loose the game if they don't play better defense."
a) might b) loose c) game d) play

Question 35:
Which of the following sentences uses the subjunctive mood correctly?
15 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

a) If I was a millionaire, I would travel the world.

b) If I were a millionaire, I would travel the world.
c) If he was here, he could help us.
d) If she was my friend, she would support me.

Question 36:
Identify the sentence with the correct use of parallel structure:
a) She likes dancing, to sing, and painting.
b) He enjoys reading books, watching movies, and to travel.
c) They spent the day hiking, swimming, and fishing.
d) My favorite activities are running, to play soccer, and biking.

Question 37:
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the passive voice:
a) The chef cooked a delicious meal.
b) The delicious meal was cooked by the chef.
c) The chef is cooking a delicious meal.
d) The meal the chef cooked was delicious.

Question 38:
Select the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement:
a) The team are playing well this season.
b) Each of the players have a unique skill.
c) None of the information were useful.
d) The committee has made its decision.

Question 39:
Which sentence correctly uses an infinitive?
a) She enjoys to read mystery novels.
b) He decided to quickly finish his homework.
c) They want going to the park.
d) We were planning to gone on a trip.

Question 40:
Identify the correct use of a semicolon:
a) She loves painting; and she often paints landscapes.
b) The conference starts at 9 AM; please arrive on time.
c) I have a meeting at 10; and I need to finish this report.
d) He is an excellent speaker; he talks very clearly.

Question 41:
Choose the sentence with the correct pronoun-antecedent agreement:
a) Each of the students must bring their own lunch.
b) Neither of the boys brought their homework.
c) Someone left their umbrella in the hallway.
d) Everyone must submit his or her report by Friday.

Question 42:
Which sentence uses the correct form of the verb?
16 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

a) If he was more careful, he wouldn't have broken the vase.

b) I wish I was able to attend the concert.
c) She acts as if she were the boss.
d) If I was taller, I would join the basketball team.

Question 43:
Identify the sentence with correct punctuation:
a) The dog, who was very old limped slowly.
b) After the meeting ended everyone went home.
c) The artist, whose work is famous, displayed her new collection.
d) She asked me where I was going; but I didn't answer.

Question 44:
Choose the sentence that correctly uses an appositive:
a) My brother, who is a doctor, works at the hospital.
b) My brother who is a doctor, works at the hospital.
c) My brother, who is a doctor works at the hospital.
d) My brother who is a doctor works at the hospital.

Question 45:
Select the sentence with the correct comparative form:
a) She is more smarter than her sister.
b) This book is gooder than the last one.
c) His car is faster than mine.
d) This puzzle is more easier than that one.

Question 46:
Identify the sentence with correct adjective order:
a) She bought a red, small car.
b) He wore a woolen, blue, long scarf.
c) They live in a beautiful, large, old house.
d) She has a wooden, round, small table.

Question 47:
Choose the sentence that uses a correlative conjunction correctly:
a) Either you can have cake nor ice cream.
b) Both she and her sister are coming to the party.
c) Neither the manager or the assistant were available.
d) Not only he likes football but also basketball.

Question 48:
Which sentence uses the correct preposition?
a) She is interested on learning new languages.
b) He was accused for stealing the money.
c) They are responsible for cleaning the room.
d) She is good in playing the piano.

Question 49:
Identify the sentence with the correct use of an adjective clause:
17 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

a) The movie, that we watched last night, was exciting.

b) She is the teacher who everyone likes.
c) The car which he bought is very expensive.
d) This is the house where I grew up.

Question 50:
Choose the sentence that uses a gerund correctly:
a) He avoided to talk to her.
b) She enjoys to swim in the ocean.
c) They are considering buying a new house.
d) We finished to eat our dinner

Answer Key:
1. C 36. c
2. c 37. b
3. d 38. d
4. c 39. b
5. b 40. b
6. b 41. d
7. e 42. c
8. B 43. c
9. E 44. a
10. C 45. c
11. D 46. c
12. E 47. b
13. D 48. c
14. C 49. d
15. B 50. c
16. c
17. c
18. c
19. c
20. b
21. b
22. a
23. b
24. b
25. a
26. c
27. c
28. c
29. b
18 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

30. a
31. a
32. b
33. b
34. b
35. b

Previous year questions of IBA admission test:

Choose the correct answer:
1) The sea is _______ the hotel
a. Beside
b. Besides
c. Near by
d. At the side of
e. Close
2) Our students spent a lot of money ______ gifts when they were on holiday
a. On
b. In
c. At
d. There
e. by

3) Select the most appropriate option for the underlined part of the sentence:
The receipts that you must not loose are in the drawer
a. That you must not loose
b. Which you must not loose
c. That you must not lose
d. That you must not lost
e. None of these

Identify the wrong part of the sentence

4) The athlete
(A) was disqualified (B) from the tournament (C) for participating at
(D)in illegal demonstration. No error(E)

5) (A)Admittance for the (B) program (C) was only (D) by special invitation of the committee. No
error(E)

19 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Instruction: Identify from the following list the set of incorrect words / sequence or use of
word(s).
6)
(A) Bold, boulder, boldest (B) Hard, harder, hardest (C) Full, fuller, fulleşt A
(D) Able, abler, ablest (E) Merry, merrier, merriest

7)

(A) Sully, sullied (B) Scurry, scurried (C) Fathom, fathomed

(D) Veto, vetoed (E) none of these

8)
(A) the concluding remark (B) the opening sentence (C) the creative mind
(D) the principle theme (E) the unreliable figure

9)
(A) possible, possibly (B) quite, quietly (C) earnest, earnestly
(D) double, doubly (E) none of

Choose the correct answer:

10) Your office is so close ___ my house, why don’t you drop ___ sometimes
A. By;to
B. To;by
C. From;by
D. From;at
E. From;in

11) Select the most appropriate option for the underlined part of the sentence:

He is such lazy that he sleeps all day long

A. Such lazy that
B. So lazy that
C. So lazy such that
D. As lazy as
E. So lazy so as to

Choose the correct answer:

12) Fearing a complete sellout, we went to the movie theatre so early that we found none____ the
ticket counter
A. On
B. In
C. At
D. Under
E. Next to

Identify the wrong part of the sentence

20 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

13) I fail to understand

(A)why you are (B) seeking my council (C) after you had ignored
(D) my advice last week. No error(E)

14) Choose the best alternative for the underlined part.

John had such bad a sense of humor that nothing ever appealed to him as funny.

A) John had such bad a sense of humor,

B) John had such a bad sense of humor,
C) John has such a bad sense of humor,
D) So bad is John's sense of humor.
E) John is having such a bad sense of humor,

15) The bus stop is not far away my office

A. Far from
B. Far away
C. Far than
D. Far to
E. Far off

Answer:

1. A
2. A
3. C
4. D
5. A
6. A
7. E
8. D
9. E
10. B
11. B
12. C
13. C
14. B
15. A

21 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Vocabulary

Part of
No. Word Speech Meaning Sentence
To soak or fill The heavy rain pounded the ground, saturating it
something completely and turning the dusty path into a
1 Saturate Verb completely muddy mess.

To enjoy something
slowly and fully I savored the rich flavor of the chocolate cake,
2 Savor Verb appreciate it letting each bite melt in my mouth.
To release a
substance from a The carnivorous plant secreted a sticky sap,
3 Secrete Verb gland or cell effectively trapping unsuspecting insects.
The antique vase, a cherished family heirloom,
A small, broken shattered into sharp shards, a painful reminder of
4 Shard Noun piece of something the broken object.
A person who
doubts the truth of With a natural skepticism, I needed more evidence
5 Skeptic Noun something before believing the strange story.
Showing care and
concern for The attentive nurse ensured her patients were
6 Solicitous Adjective someone comfortable, checking on their needs regularly.
Causing sleep or The warm milk, with a touch of honey, had a
7 Soporific Adjective drowsiness soporific effect, making me feel pleasantly drowsy.
His arguments, delivered confidently, seemed
Seemingly true but reasonable at first glance, but lacked any real
8 Specious Adjective actually false substance.
The scientist was fascinated by the light spectrum,
exploring its vast range from invisible ultraviolet
A broad range of rays to the vibrant colors we see and the unseen
9 Spectrum Noun something infrared waves.

A mark of disgrace
or shame Stuttering used to be a stigma, but thankfully,
associated with attitudes are changing towards acceptance and
10 Stigma Noun something understanding.

A short period of She volunteered for a rewarding three-month stint

time spent doing a at the animal shelter, providing temporary care
11 Stint Noun particular activity and affection to abandoned animals.

To state a condition
or requirement as a
necessary part of The contract clearly stipulated on-time completion
12 Stipulate Verb an agreement and outlined penalties for any delays.
22 | P a g e
ACS IBA Engsight

The stoic soldier stood guard at his post, his

Impassive and unwavering determination a beacon of strength
13 Stolid Adjective unemotional amidst the surrounding chaos.
Examining the muscle fibers under a microscope
revealed their striated pattern, countless tiny
Marked with narrow grooves running parallel, a design crucial for
14 Striated Adjective grooves or stripes powerful contractions.
The peacock strutted around the park, its
To walk in a proud magnificent tail feathers fanned out in a dazzling
15 Strut Verb and arrogant way display of pride.

A court order
commanding
someone to appear The lawyer issued a subpoena to compel the
16 Subpoena Noun in court witness to testify.

To become less
17 Subside Verb intense or violent The storm raged for hours before finally subsiding.
To provide
Substantiat evidence to support The detective was unable to substantiate the
18 e Verb a claim rumors about the politician.

To take the place of

something earlier or
19 Supersede Verb less important The new law superseded the old one.

A belief that is not

Suppositio based on certain My suspicion was just a supposition, and I needed
20 n Noun knowledge facts.

Implied or
understood though
not directly There was a tacit agreement between the rivals
21 Tacit Adjective expressed not to attack each other.
Going off on a side
issue and not
relevant to the main Her comments about the weather were tangential
22 Tangential Adjective topic to the discussion.
There was a tenuous connection between the
23 Tenuous Adjective Weak or flimsy suspect and the crime scene.
A long, angry The politician launched into a tirade against his
24 Tirade Noun speech opponent.

A state of inactivity The hot afternoon sun induced a state of torpor in

25 Torpor Noun or sluggishness the entire town.

Winding or full of The hike followed a tortuous path through the

26 Tortuous Adjective bends mountains.

23 | P a g e
ACS IBA Engsight

Easy to control or
27 Tractable Adjective manage The well-trained dog was very tractable.
An act of going
Transgress beyond what is
28 ion Noun permitted Stealing is a serious transgression.

A hostile or
29 Truculence Noun aggressive attitude The bully's truculence made everyone afraid.
To waver or change
one's mind The indecisive leader vacillated on the important
30 Vacillate Verb frequently decision.
To regard with
great respect and
31 Venerate Verb reverence Many cultures venerate their ancestors.
The witness provided a veracious account of the
32 Veracious Adjective Truthful or honest accident.
Using or expressing
more words than The speaker's verbose presentation made the
33 Verbose Adjective necessary audience restless.

Capable of working
or developing The company's new plan seems like a viable
34 Viable Adjective successfully option.
Thick and sticky,
having a high
35 Viscous Adjective viscosity Honey is a viscous liquid that flows slowly.
Vituperativ Harshly critical or
36 e Adjective abusive The critic wrote a vituperative review of the play.

Likely to change
rapidly or become
37 Volatile Adjective violent The situation in the country was very volatile.
Justified or The use of force was not warranted in that
38 Warranted Adjective necessary situation.
Cautious or
39 Wary Adjective suspicious The stranger was wary of the dark alley.
A state of great
confusion or
40 Welter Noun disorder The city was in a welter after the natural disaster.

41 Whimsical Adjective Playful or fanciful The child had a whimsical imagination.

A person who is
fanatically devoted
to a particular
42 Zealot Noun cause or religion The zealot preached his beliefs with fervor.

24 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Exercise
Question 1: Fill in the blank

After the long and grueling hours of work under the relentless sun, the laborers succumbed to a
profound state of ________, unable to muster the energy to continue even the simplest of tasks.

a) truculence b) torpor c) vigilance d) zealotry e) viableness

Question 2: Word Meaning

What is the intended meaning of "solicitous" in the following sentence?

"Throughout the night, the solicitous nurse moved from bed to bed in the crowded ward, offering
words of comfort, checking vital signs, and ensuring each patient received the attention and care
they needed to feel safe and secure."
a) indifferent b) concerned c) inattentive d) lethargic e) ambivalent

Question 3: Antonym

Which word conveys the opposite meaning of "tangible"?

a) tenacious b) tortuous c) tractable d) intangible e) veracious

Question 4: Word in Context

In the sentence, "Despite his confident demeanor and the seemingly logical structure of his
speech, his arguments were ultimately revealed to be ________ and quickly dismantled by the
sharp scrutiny of his peers," which word fits best?
a) vacillating b) veracious c) specious d) strident e) warranted

Question 5: Synonym

Which word is closest in meaning to "volatile"?

a) steady b) whimsical c) constant d) predictable e) fluctuating

Question 6: Fill in the blank

Faced with a reluctant witness who held crucial information, the prosecution had no choice but to
issue a ________ to compel the individual to appear in court and provide the necessary testimony.

a) subpoena b) stint c) supposition d) tirade e) zealot

Question 7: Word in Context

What does "venerate" mean in the sentence, "In numerous ancient civilizations, it was customary
to venerate ancestors by erecting monuments, performing elaborate rituals, and offering prayers
as signs of respect and reverence"?
a) criticize b) ignore c) honor d) dismiss e) vilify

25 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Question 8: Antonym

Which word is the opposite of "saturate"?

a) moisten b) deplete c) infuse d) drench e) immerse

Question 9: Word Meaning

What is the intended meaning of "stipulate" in the sentence, "The meticulously drafted contract
stipulated that the tenants were responsible for all repairs and maintenance of the property,
ensuring the landlord's investment remained in pristine condition"?
a) imply b) suggest c) mandate d) infer e) request

Question 10: Fill in the blank

Through rigorous experimentation and detailed analysis, the scientist was finally able to ________
the groundbreaking hypothesis, providing solid evidence that would convince even the most
skeptical peers.

a) supersede b) substantiate c) secrete d) speculate e) striate

Question 11: Word in Context

In the sentence, "The CEO's convoluted and ________ speech, filled with irrelevant anecdotes
and tangential points, left the employees feeling more confused and uncertain about the
company's direction than before," which word fits best?
a) tacit b) tenacious c) tortuous d) terse e) torpid

Question 12: Antonym

Which word is the opposite of "skeptic"?

a) believer b) doubter c) critic d) cynic e) agnostic

Question 13: Fill in the blank

The soldier's ________ expression, devoid of any hint of fear or emotion, remained steadfast as
he stood guard over the critical outpost, a silent testament to his unwavering duty and resilience.
a) whimsical b) vituperative c) wary d) stolid e) tangible

Question 14: Word in Context

What is the intended meaning of "welter" in the sentence, "In the aftermath of the unexpected
announcement, the office descended into a welter of speculation, rumors swirling and employees
scrambling to understand the implications for their future roles and responsibilities"?
a) calm b) order c) confusion d) serenity e) silence

26 | P a g e
 ACS IBA Engsight

Question 15: Fill in the blank

With the implementation of the new technology and the updated procedures, the company hoped
to ________ the outdated methods that had long been a hindrance to their efficiency and growth.

a) stipulate b) substantiate c) supersede d) secrete e) strut

Read the following passage and fill the blanks with appropriate words
from the table:

Skepticism Veracious Solicitous Welter Stolid Torpor

Zealot Supersede Tractable Secrete Subpoena Substantiate

In the aftermath of the economic crisis, the once-thriving metropolis was plunged into a state of
confusion and disorder. The streets, which used to bustle with activity, now lay in a ________ (16)
of abandoned buildings and empty shops. The local government, recognizing the severity of the
situation, issued a ________ (17) to various financial experts, compelling them to appear and
testify on potential solutions to the fiscal turmoil.

Among the experts was Dr. Eleanor Ross, a renowned economist known for her ________ (18)
approach to problem-solving. Her proposals were not just theoretical; she could ________ (19) her
claims with empirical data and rigorous analysis. However, not everyone was convinced. There
were those who, due to their inherent ________ (20), doubted the feasibility of her plans and
continued to question the validity of her data.

As the days turned into weeks, the sense of urgency grew. The mayor, a pragmatic and ________
(21) leader, understood that quick and effective measures were essential to prevent further
decline. He called for an immediate implementation of new policies that would ________ (22) the
outdated and ineffective methods previously employed.

Meanwhile, the residents of the city were caught in a state of ________ (23), their daily lives
disrupted by the uncertainty that loomed over them. Many found themselves in a state of
________ (24), struggling to muster the energy to go about their daily routines. The once vibrant
community spirit seemed to have vanished, replaced by a pervasive sense of gloom and
hopelessness.

In the midst of this chaos, there were still glimmers of hope. Community leaders, ______(25) about
the welfare of their fellow citizens, organized various support groups and initiatives to help those in
need. They believed that with collective effort and unwavering determination, the city could
eventually rise from its ashes and reclaim its former glory.

27 | P a g e
ACS IBA Engsight

Answer Key:

1. b
2. b
3. d
4. c
5. e
6. a
7. c
8. b
9. c
10. b
11. c
12. a
13. d
14. c
15. c
16. welter
17. subpoena
18. veracious
19. substantiate
20. skepticism
21. stolid
22. supersede
23. torpor
24. tractable
25. solicitous

28 | P a g e